South Charlotte Today

CHARLOTTE — The Panthers had a productive day during their joint practice with the Jets, but several injuries have raised concerns at key positions.

The team began practice without starting cornerback Dane Jackson. Head coach Dave Canales indicated that Jackson's injury was significant and could sideline him for approximately six weeks. "Dane's was a significant hamstring," Canales stated.

Cornerback Jaycee Horn was also limited in his participation against Aaron Rodgers and the Jets due to a rep count. Additionally, veteran safety Xavier Woods missed practice because of a groin injury, which Canales suggested might keep him out for "a couple of weeks." He added, "A little bit more serious than we thought."

Defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero noted that backup Nick Scott is considered starting-caliber, but depth at cornerback remains uncertain. When Horn was not on the field, Lamar Jackson and D'Shawn Jamison took over starting duties alongside veteran nickel Troy Hill. Dicaprio Bootle and Chau Smith-Wade also saw significant playing time. Jackson, Jamison, and Bootle are returning players from last season, while Smith-Wade is a fifth-round draft pick.

Guard Chandler Zavala left practice on a cart after sustaining a hamstring injury. Canales mentioned that the initial prognosis was not favorable. Zavala had been working with the starting line as free agent Damien Lewis was limited due to personal reasons.

Zavala had been among the five healthy linemen who finished last week's preseason opener and played every snap. With both Zavala and Lewis unable to finish practice, former starter Brady Christensen stepped in at left guard with the first team. "So we're concerned about that one," Canales said regarding Zavala's injury. "It feels like it could be a little bit of a longer deal."

Starting running back Chuba Hubbard experienced what appeared to be a knee issue after taking a big hit from Jets safety Chuck Clark but received positive initial test results. Canales remarked, "We had big concerns there... The initial testing looks pretty good."

Right guard Robert Hunt also left practice for evaluation by athletic trainers but returned to complete the session. This outcome encouraged Canales: "That's the message for the team... What can you play with?"

Rookie Kenny Dyson (groin) might miss some time due to his injury. Veteran wide receiver Diontae Johnson remained out with what Canales described as a mild groin injury, while outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney took a day off for long-term health considerations.