CHARLOTTE — While running back Christian McCaffrey has missed Carolina’s last six games with a high ankle sprain, his return seems imminent.

“I hope Christian will be back next week,” head coach Matt Rhule said Friday, a day after Carolina fell to 3-5 with a loss to Atlanta.

Rhule mentioned several players who could return in Week 9 when the Panthers travel to face the Chiefs. But he added, “at the very least,” he hopes McCaffrey and defensive tackle Zach Kerr — who missed Thursday’s game with a toe injury — will be among them.

McCaffrey was designated to return from the reserve/injured list on Tuesday, beginning his 21-day practice window. He was on the field for that day’s portion of practice open to the media, which included stretching. There was no media availability for Wednesday’s practice, and because McCaffrey is not on