SHORTHANDED ON BOTH SIDES

The Panthers will be without cornerback Donte Jackson again this week as they try to let his problematic toe injury heal.

The Vikings could have an equivalent absence on the other side of the ball.

Wide receiver Adam Thielen has been on the reserve/COVID-19 list since Monday, and reports suggested he might not be cleared in time to play this week.

He had a huge game last time out, with eight catches for 123 yards and two touchdowns last week against Dallas. His 11 touchdown receptions are a league-high, as he’s become Cousins’ go-to target after they traded Stefon Diggs to the Bills this offseason.

Thielen has been especially dangerous in the red zone, with 10 of his touchdowns coming inside the 20-yard line.

The Vikings can still be effective on offense, especially