He simply fell and broke his leg without any explanation… the Las Vegas Raiders.
Three players—Josey Jewell (hamstring/groin), Shaq Thompson (Achilles), and Andrew Raym (concussion)—will be sidelined for the game on Sunday due to injuries.
Update: Oct 5th, 2024 09:01 EDT
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – SEPTEMBER 22: Adam Thielen 19 of the Carolina Panthers scores a touchdown while Jack Jones 18 of the Las Vegas Raiders attempts to tackle him during the second quarter at Allegiant Stadium on September 22, 2024. Ian Maule/Getty Images/AFP (Photo by Ian Maule / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)
This week’s game between the Carolina Panthers and Chicago Bears features several developing storylines. The Panthers have undergone a significant transformation since switching to veteran quarterback Andy Dalton in their last game, while the Bears, despite their struggles with consistency, are starting to make progress with their young quarterback.
Panthers’ Offensive Shift with Dalton
Carolina’s offense has appeared markedly different over the last two weeks since the team transitioned to Andy Dalton as quarterback. Dalton’s quick decision-making and efficient ball distribution have provided stability. Though not flawless, the Panthers’ offensive line has improved, especially in pass protection, earning a Pro Football Focus (PFF) pass-blocking grade of 73.9, which ranks second in the NFL. However, they will face a tough challenge against the Bears’ defensive front, particularly in the interior.
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – SEPTEMBER 29: Andy Dalton #14 of the Carolina Panthers throws a pass in the fourth quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Bank of America Stadium on September 29, 2024. Matt Kelley/Getty Images/AFP (Photo by Matt Kelley / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)
On the other hand, the Panthers’ defense, particularly their pass rush, has raised concerns. The defensive line has struggled to apply pressure in the absence of standout defensive tackle Derrick Brown, recording a PFF pass-rushing grade of 55.0, which places them 28th in the league. Despite having Jadeveon Clowney on the edge, the Panthers lack the supporting players needed for a consistently effective pass rush.
Injury Report Overview:
Questionable: Jaire Alexander, De’Vondre Campbell, AJ Dillon, Rudy Ford, Dontayvion Wicks
Doubtful:Josiah Deguara
Out: Aaron Jones, Darnell Savage, Luke Musgrave (IR), Emanuel Wilson (IR)
Notably, Jayden Reed will play.
While the Panthers may not have an elite pass rush, the Bears’ offensive line has had its share of issues. Chicago’s overall pass-blocking grade stands at 67.6 (17th in the NFL), but the line has been inconsistent. Left tackle Braxton Jones has not progressed as expected, and rookie right tackle Darnell Wright has experienced fluctuations in performance. With injuries and underwhelming performances at crucial positions like center and guard, this matchup will be a significant test for the Bears’ offensive front.
When considering players deserving respect for their performances, Panthers veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen stands out. He was placed on the injured reserve list two weeks ago amid a series of roster moves.
Thielen suffered a hamstring injury while catching a 31-yard touchdown in the second quarter, changing into street clothes at halftime and not returning to the game. Panthers head coach Dave Canales later confirmed that Thielen’s right hamstring injury would not require surgery. Thielen is entering his 11th NFL season, his second with the Panthers, after a successful 2023 campaign in which he recorded over 100 receptions and surpassed 1,000 yards.
