The Carolina Panthers head into their Week 15 showdown with the New Orleans Saints carrying a late addition to their injury report - and it’s a notable one.
Defensive lineman Tershawn Wharton was officially listed as questionable on Saturday due to a hamstring injury. It’s the same issue that’s already cost him time this season, part of a frustrating stretch that’s seen him sidelined for four games with both hamstring and toe problems.
When he’s been healthy, Wharton has been a steady contributor up front, tallying 36 combined tackles and 2.0 sacks across nine appearances. His status will be something to monitor closely as the Panthers prepare to face a Saints offense that’s been inconsistent but still dangerous when given time in the pocket.
Before Wharton’s late designation, the Panthers’ injury report had actually been trending in a positive direction. Five players who appeared on the list earlier in the week - center Cade Mays (ankle), linebackers Christian Rozeboom (hip/hamstring) and Claudin Cherelus (concussion), cornerback Jaycee Horn (concussion), and safety Lathan Ransom (thumb) - were all cleared for action with no game-day designations. That’s a welcome sign for a team looking to stay healthy down the stretch and make a serious push in the NFC South.
The Panthers also made a roster move ahead of Sunday’s game, elevating inside linebacker Isaiah Simmons from the practice squad. The former first-round pick made his Panthers debut in Week 13 against the Rams, logging 14 snaps on special teams. Simmons brings versatility and athleticism to the second level of the defense, and while his role may be limited for now, his presence adds depth to a unit that’s been tested by injuries throughout the season.
With playoff implications starting to come into focus and a divisional opponent on deck, every piece matters - whether it’s a key starter like Wharton or a depth addition like Simmons. The Panthers’ health, especially on defense, could play a major role in how Sunday unfolds and how the rest of their December push shapes up.