The Panthers missed Jonathan Stewart in their first loss of the season on Sunday in Atlanta. They could have their top running back on the field when they try to lock up the NFC's top seed in Week 17.
ESPN's Ed Werder reported Tuesday that the Panthers are "hopeful" Stewart will return to the lineup next Sunday against the 6-9 Buccaneers. Stewart -- who has missed the past two weeks with a foot injury -- ran on a treadmill and could practice on Wednesday, according to a source.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday that Fozzy Whittaker suffered a high-ankle sprain against the Falcons and won't be available. If Stewart isn't able to go, Carolina will ask seldom-used Cameron Artis-Payne to lead the backfield attack.
Here are the other injuries we are tracking today:
- Bengals quarterback AJ McCarronsuffered a sprained left wrist in Monday night's loss to the Denver Broncos, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported. Rapaport also said that the injury was "significant," and the Bengals are not sure if McCarron will play Sunday against the Ravens.
- The Ravens placed wideout Marlon Brown (back) on injured reserve, and put defensive back Sheldon Price on the active roster.
- Colts linebacker Josh McNary (groin) was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday.
- Sebastian Vollmer's left ankle injury is not as severe as was feared, per CSN New England. The Patriots left tackle will be back for the postseason. He left last game against the Jets in the first quarter, and is not expected to play against the Dolphins this Sunday.
