Carolina Panthers add three players to reserve/COVID list
The Carolina Panthers have been hit by COVID multiple times in the week prior to their game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday. On Thursday, the team announced they’re placing three more players on the reserve/COVID-19 list.
“The Panthers put three more players on the reserve/COVID-19 list and took one off Thursday, pushing the team total to 13 as they prepare for Sunday’s game against the Saints,” announced the team. “The Panthers added safety Kenny Robinson, defensive end Darryl Johnson, and practice squad running back Reggie Bonnafon to the COVID-19 list Thursday, the sixth straight day they’ve added someone.”
While the news is unfortunate, the silver lining is that veteran cornerback has been added to the active roster. After five days on the reserve/COVID-19 list, Melvin was re-added to the Panthers roster.
Furthermore, the news regarding more players testing positive continues the rough week for the Panthers defense. Earlier this week, star defensive end Brian Burns and linebacker Shaq Thompson tested positive on Monday. Additionally, ferocious defender Hasson Reddick was placed on the list on Wednesday.
The loss of Burns is already a huge blow to the Panthers defense. On the season, the former Florida State star has accumulated 48 tackles, nine sacks and two forced fumbles.
Additionally, Thompson is one of the leaders of the Panthers defense. While he’s missed a couple games already this season, the unit is better with him on the field. On the season, the former Washington star has amassed 91 tackles, two sacks and two interceptions.
Finally, Reddick joining them on the reserve/COVID list is detrimental to the team’s chances of ending their season with a couple victories. After coming to Carolina last offseason, Reddick has accumulated 37 tackles and 11 sacks, while also forcing two fumbles.
More on the Panthers, COVID
As COVID resurges throughout the NFL, Carolina is being hit hard by positive tests. The Panthers are already in a rut. Now, dealing with having to send their team home won’t be to their benefit.
On Sunday, Rhule suffered one of the worst defeats in his time with Carolina against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. At home in an NFC South showdown, the Panthers were outclassed in all facets on the game — the Buccaneers rolling to a 32-6 victory.
Now, the Panthers are 1-7 in their last eight games. Since starting the season 3-0, Carolina is a lousy 2-10 since. Rumors are beginning to run rampant that Rhule could be on the outs with the franchise.
As Matt Rhule and the Panthers look to finish their season with two victories, another wrench has been thrown in their plans. Carolina will be forced to overcome another obstacle if they want to find a victory on Sunday.