Sun Sep 14 21:40:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
The Carolina Panthers are preparing to face the Arizona Cardinals. Left tackle Ikem Ekwonu is set to return after recovering from an appendectomy, though he was a limited participant in practice. Defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton is out with a hamstring injury, expected to miss 2-4 weeks. Bobby Brown III is expected to start in Wharton’s place, and rookie Cam Jackson is expected to play his first game in NFL. Several other players, including wide receivers Jimmy Horn Jr. and Dalevon Campbell, tight end James Mitchell, and tackle Yosh Nijman are inactive. The team is focusing on improving offensive communication and tackling.
**News Article:**
**Ekwonu Returns, Wharton Out as Panthers Prepare for Cardinals Clash**
GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Carolina Panthers are bolstering their offensive line with the return of left tackle Ikem Ekwonu for their Week 2 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. Ekwonu, who missed the season opener following an appendectomy, practiced this week and has been cleared to play.
However, the Panthers’ defense will be without veteran defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton, who suffered a hamstring injury. Head Coach Dave Canales expects Wharton to be sidelined for 2-4 weeks. Bobby Brown III is slated to start in Wharton’s absence, and rookie defensive lineman Cam Jackson is set to make his NFL debut.
In addition to Wharton, wide receivers Jimmy Horn Jr. and Dalevon Campbell, tight end James Mitchell, and tackle Yosh Nijman will be inactive for the game. The Panthers are counting on their secondary players to step it up.
The Panthers recognize the challenge posed by Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray and are emphasizing the importance of containing him in the pocket. As the Panthers prepare to face the Cardinals, offensive coordinator Brad Idzik stressed the importance of clear communication and efficiency on offense, while defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero has been working on improving the team’s tackling.
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