Carolina Panthers cornerback won’t get the chance to play this season.
The ex-Denver Broncos draft pick, claimed off waivers just last week, suffered a torn ACL during Wednesday’s practice, head coach Dave Canales confirmed. The injury, which occurred during a non-contact drill, will sideline Mathis for the entire regular season. He’ll need surgery and will be moved to injured reserve once the team makes a roster decision.
Mathis had just reunited with defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, who coached him during his rookie year in Denver in 2022. Now in the final season of his rookie deal, the 26-year-old is scheduled to hit free agency next offseason.
Mathis was slated to add depth behind starters Jaycee Horn, Mike Jackson, and Chau Smith-Wade. With his absence, Carolina still has Akayleb Evans and rookie Corey Thornton available at cornerback.
Ekwonu ‘doubtful’ for Panthers in Week 1
Panthers left tackle Ickey Ekwonu returned to practice on Friday in a limited role following an emergency appendectomy less than two weeks ago. Despite the progress, he’s been listed as “doubtful” for Sunday’s Week 1 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Ekwonu had missed practices on Wednesday and Thursday, but the team will continue to evaluate him over the weekend. If he’s unable to suit up, Carolina is expected to turn to either Yosh Nijman or Brady Christensen at left tackle. Both veterans have been working at the spot this week and bring considerable experience to the role.
Panthers guards Rob Hunt (foot) and Damien Lewis (shoulder) were cleared on the final injury report and are set to play in Sunday’s matchup with Jacksonville.