CHARLOTTE — Out of an abundance of caution, Carolina's players, coaches and football staff are working remotely for the next two days following an unconfirmed COVID-19 test result.
The Panthers' training room remains open for players receiving treatment, but this latest measure impacts all other redlined areas at Bank of America Stadium. The team still hopes to operate on a regular schedule to start the practice week on Wednesday.
Head coach Matt Rhule said he received a phone call around 4:48 am informing him of the result and the plan for the next two days. He was working out of his home on Monday, trying to make the most of the situation coming off Carolina's 23-16 loss to the Bears.
"I told our staff take this time with no distractions to go back and really watch yesterday's game, watch the weeks before. Let's find a way to improve In the areas where we haven't played well," Rhule said. "So provided that we're back in there on Wednesday, I'm hoping there will be just some time for some introspection."
The Panthers' practice schedule was impacted last week by moving into the NFL's intensive protocol, which remains in effect. Carolina did not have its usual fully padded practice last Wednesday, instead going through a lighter session as players adjusted to wearing masks on the field.
"I thought, as a result, we healed up a little on defense and played better on defense, but certainly in some areas, we weren't as good," Rhule said. "I hate to make it come off as an excuse. I just look forward to going out there on Wednesday, putting the pads on and getting to work."
The Panthers' temporary work-at-home situation does not affect early voting at Bank of America Stadium. For more information on hours and how to vote at the stadium, you can click here.
View the best photos from behind the scenes of Carolina's Week 6 game against Chicago.
