Panthers Week 15 Injury Report: Two questionable, two ruled out

The Carolina Panthers will be absent two key starters on Sunday against Green Bay…

For a second straight week the Carolina Panthers will be without the services of linebacker Shaq Thompson. Battling a foot injury, the Panthers budding superstar among a stellar linebacking corps has been sidelined once again.

In his absence last week, both cornerback Captain Munnerlyn and safety Colin Jones were utilized to fill his position in the Panthers nickel role. Expected to be the case this week against Green Bay and quarterback Aaron Rodgers, the veteran presence of Munnerlyn could be key to the Panthers defensive success.

Unfortunately, earlier this week it was reported that Munnerlyn walked out of practice due to displeasure with his weekly assignment in coordinator Steve Wilks game plan. However, following his departure, Munnerlyn himself attempted to set the record straight about his absence.

Carolina will also be missing a key cog to their offensive success up front when they take the field against Green Bay. Guard Trai Turner has also been ruled out with a concussion after completing last week’s game versus Minnesota but reportedly entering a day later with concussion like symptoms.

This marks Turner’s first absence since his rookie campaign, three seasons ago. Perhaps more critical than Thompson’s absence, a cohesive offensive line is imperative to the success of quarterback Cam Newton and the Panthers run game.

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Filling the void will be Amini Silatolu, with the questionable Tyler Larsen and rookie Taylor Moton also available. After starting for injured center Ryan Kalil over a majority of the season, Larsen at least has experience working alongside the other guys up front.

Wide receiver Devin Funchess rounds out the injury list, also noted as questionable being hampered by a shoulder issue but is expected to play. Since former wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin was traded, Funchess has excelled with 24 catches, 405 yards and four touchdowns.

Given the amount of injuries around the league, Carolina has been relatively fortunate but missing key pieces down the stretch is never a good thing. Especially without having played any games to judge whether the replacements can continue a steady line of production.

Next: Week 15 - Packers Perspective

Facing Rodgers, the absence of Thompson is crucial along with a new piece on the opposite side of the football. Two key figures, absent in a pivotal game over the final stretch of the regular season is far from ideal.