South Charlotte Today

For the past three weeks, the Carolina Panthers have experienced an uplift in their practice energy and locker room atmosphere. "Winning two games in a row really has helped," said Dave Canales, reflecting on the positive feeling surrounding his team. He emphasized that this success is not due to luck but rather the result of hard work.

"I would say that what I saw was a group that was growing more confident in the things that we're asking them to do heading into those games," Canales noted. The coach observed improvements in practice and game performance over the last month, highlighting increased comfort, speed of play, and communication.

The Panthers now face a challenge against the Kansas City Chiefs, who boast a 9-1 record along with an MVP quarterback and top five defense. However, the Panthers' offense is healthier than before, presenting arguably their most complete depth chart this season.

Canales confirmed that Jonathon Brooks will "absolutely" play on Sunday after completing a full week of practice. "He had a great week," Canales stated. Brooks's participation will address the absence of Miles Sanders due to an ankle injury sustained against the Giants in Week 10.

"The starting point is Chuba Hubbard," clarified Canales regarding running back roles while Brooks will assume similar duties as Sanders for now.

Both Adam Thielen and Jalen Coker are listed as questionable on the final injury report. However, Canales expressed optimism about their participation: "We've been waiting and hoping to get Adam back out there." Coker's situation involved "a little bit of a strain" detected Thursday; he did not practice Friday but is expected to play after resting Saturday.

Kicker Eddy Piñeiro also missed Friday's practice due to lingering left knee pain from celebrating his walk-off game-winning field goal against the Giants in Week 10. When asked if he had encountered celebratory injuries before, Canales humorously responded, "not that I can remember."

Despite Piñeiro sitting out of Friday's session, there are no plans to sign another kicker at this time. "He had two really good days of kicking this week," remarked Canales about Piñeiro's readiness for Sunday’s game.