CHARLOTTE — The Panthers are short-handed across the defense this week, and they'll be very young in the secondary.
Veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore was rule out of Sunday's game against the Saints because of the groin injury which forced him out of last week's game.
That leaves the Panthers with CJ Henderson, Keith Taylor Jr., Stantley Thomas-Oliver III, and Rashaan Melvin, and they promoted Madre Harper from the practice squad a week ago.
That's a far cry from the secondary they had at points this year, as cornerbacks Jaycee Horn, Donte Jackson, and A.J. Bouye are all on injured reserve.
The Panthers will likely be without veteran tackle Cameron Erving (calf) this week, since he's listed as doubtful. Rookie Brady Christensen is expected to remain in the starting lineup at left tackle.
Safety Juston Burris (groin) and linebacker Jermaine Carter Jr. (groin) are listed as questionable. Safety Sean Chandler is listed as doubtful.
Henderson (shoulder/knee) was added to the report Friday, and is listed as questionable.