South Charlotte Today

The Carolina Panthers are aiming for improved offensive performance, particularly in the red zone, and may see the return of two rookies this week. Head coach Dave Canales expressed optimism that tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders and wide receiver Jalen Coker could play against the Eagles. Sanders missed a game due to a neck injury, while Coker has been out with a quadriceps issue.

"That's the hope," Canales said. "They both have a couple of big days, today and tomorrow, to evaluate where they're at, and the hope is to get them back up this week."

Sanders ranks fourth on the team with 29 receptions and third with 302 yards this season. Coker has contributed 17 catches for 263 yards and started earlier in Adam Thielen's absence. Coker expressed his eagerness to return: "In the beginning it was frustrating; I want to be out there," he said Monday.

Special teams captain Sam Franklin Jr. faced scrutiny after being involved in an altercation with Buccaneers players. Canales addressed the situation with Franklin: "We talked about it; he and I sat down this morning and just had that conversation," Canales said.

The Panthers are preparing for their upcoming game against Philadelphia, focusing on stopping Eagles running back Saquon Barkley. Defensive end D.J. Wonnum emphasized readiness: "Kudos to him, but you know what I'm saying, we got to prevent him from doing that stuff," Wonnum stated Monday.

Linebacker Trevin Wallace acknowledged Barkley's capabilities: "Like, ok, everybody needs to get to the ball because you've seen his highlights." Safety Xavier Woods noted Barkley's improvement since their past matchups: "He's got even better (since then)," Woods said Monday.

Quarterback Bryce Young will continue as starter against Philadelphia after showing strong performances recently. Coach Canales confirmed Young's position without hesitation: "Yes," Canales replied definitively when asked if Young would start.

Tight end Stephen Sullivan suffered a significant knee injury during Sunday's game. His status will affect practice squad adjustments this week. Safety Nick Scott remains on injured reserve but practiced last week; his roster status is pending further evaluation.

In fan voting for Pro Bowl Games released Monday, Raheem Blackshear ranked third as return specialist.