news-record.com

CHARLOTTE (AP) — The injuries keep piling up for the Panthers.

While Carolina got two players back on Thursday, three more were sidelined. Linebacker Na'il Diggs, fullback Brad Hoover and running back Jonathan Stewart all missed practice.

Diggs suffered bruised ribs in Sunday's loss to Atlanta, while Hoover is experiencing back spasms. Stewart has been plagued by left Achilles' tendon pain since training camp, but he's been able to play in the first two games after missing practice time.

"We got a little plan going in the training room," Stewart said. "The rest is something that's been my best friend."

Safety Chris Harris (knee) and defensive tackle Nick Hayden (toe) returned to practice on a limited basis after missing the Atlanta game. While Hayden sounded confident he'll start Monday at Dallas, Harris was less sure.

"I just don't want to be out there. I need to be productive," Harris said.

Starting tackles Jordan Gross (knee) and Jeff Otah (shoulder) were also limited Thursday. Running back Mike Goodson sat out practice due to illness.

Receivers Steve Smith and Muhsin Muhammad did practice despite getting banged up against the Falcons.