HOUSTON — The Panthers knew that defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos was going to be out tonight, because of an ankle injury.

The rest of the inactive list brought at least one mild surprise.

Cornerback A.J. Bouye is inactive for tonight's game against the Texans.

He returned from a suspension which cost him the first two weeks, and a short-week game made it a tough task to get ready.

They also deactivated wide receiver Shi Smith, linebacker Clay Johnston, defensive tackle Phil Hoskins, and offensive linemen Michael Jordan and Deonte Brown.

With Bouye down, the Panthers will rely more on veteran cornerback Rashaan Melvin, who was elevated from the practice squad.

PANTHERS INACTIVES

WR Shi Smith

CB A.J. Bouye

LB Clay Johnston

DT Phil Hoskins

G Michael Jordan

G Deonte Brown

DE Yetur Gross-Matos

HOUSTON INACTIVES

QB Deshaun Watson

TE Brevin Jordan

DB Justin Reid

DB Terrance Mitchell

DL Jordan Jenkins

LB Kamu Grugier-Hill

WR Danny Amendola