Panthers face significant hurdles in Week 2 against Cardinals without Wharton and Horn
The Carolina Panthers are gearing up for a critical Week 2 showdown against the Arizona Cardinals, but they will do so without two key players who have been sidelined due to injury and roster decisions. As the Panthers prepare to take the field, here’s a closer look at the inactives impacting their game plan.
Tershawn Wharton sidelined with hamstring injury
One of the most notable absences is defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton, who suffered a hamstring injury during the season opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Wharton, a key component of the Panthers’ defensive front, is expected to miss multiple weeks, starting with today’s matchup against the Cardinals. His presence will be sorely missed as the team looks to contain Arizona’s offensive attack.
Jimmy Horn Jr. remains a healthy scratch
Wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. finds himself as a healthy scratch for the second consecutive week. Despite being selected in the sixth round of this year’s NFL Draft, Horn has yet to make his debut for the Panthers. His absence raises questions about his acclimatization to the professional level and the depth of the receiving corps.
Changes on the offensive line
Offensive tackle Yosh Nijman, who was active in Week 1, will also be among the inactives. With starting offensive lineman Ikem Ekwonu returning to the lineup, Nijman’s experience will not be utilized against the Cardinals. This decision reflects the coaching staff’s confidence in Ekwonu’s readiness and ability to protect quarterback Bryce Young.
Dalevon Campbell and James Mitchell also inactive
Wide receiver Dalevon Campbell, who joined the Panthers via waivers at the end of training camp, will be inactive again as he continues to find his footing within the team. Similarly, tight end James Mitchell, in his first year with the Panthers, will not see action today, as the coaching staff opts for a different game plan against Arizona.
Cardinals’ inactives add another layer of strategy
On the other side of the field, the Cardinals will also be missing several players, including Xavier Weaver, Elijah Jones, Xavier Thomas, linebacker Cody Simon, offensive lineman Will Hernandez, and tight end Tip Reiman. Both teams are navigating the complexities of their respective rosters as they aim to secure a crucial victory.
Kickoff for this pivotal matchup between the Panthers and Cardinals is set for 4:05 p.m. ET. Fans can catch the action on CBS or stream it on Paramount Plus. As both teams look to establish momentum early in the season, the absence of key players adds an intriguing layer of challenge to this already compelling contest.
