North Charlotte Today

CHARLOTTE – The Panthers concluded their final practice of the week on Friday, seeing the return of several players ahead of Sunday's game.

Punter Johnny Hekker participated in Friday's practice and, despite being listed as questionable on the final injury report, head coach Dave Canales expects him to play. "He kicked today, he looked great," Canales said. "He placed them inside the five just like he always did, had good power."

Hekker is one of five players listed as questionable. Tight end Tommy Tremble, who missed most of training camp and Week 1 due to hamstring and back issues, practiced in a limited capacity all week. Canales expressed optimism about Tremble's progress: "He looked great running around, was confident... So really excited to get Tommy back out there."

Offensive linemen Damien Lewis and Taylor Moton were also limited in practice but showed positive signs. Running back Raheem Blackshear missed practice due to a personal family issue but has remained engaged with the team remotely. Canales is hopeful Blackshear will be available for Sunday’s game: "He's been connected with us with his iPad... hearts and prayers are out to Raheem and his family." If Blackshear cannot play, Xavier Legette and David Moore are potential replacements for returning punts and kicks.

The Panthers recently signed veteran defensive end Charles Harris after three years with the Detroit Lions. Harris has familiarity with defensive line coach Todd Wash's system from his time in Detroit. Defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero praised Harris: "The one thing that jumped out on tape yesterday is he's on the field and he's running to the ball... Plays with great effort, plays with great physicality."

Harris' best season came in 2021 under Wash, where he recorded 7.5 sacks and 65 total tackles. Canales echoed these sentiments: "He handled the workload this week... He's got cool pass rush tools... added a lot of good energy to the group."