INJURIES AND DEPTH

Apple and Kirkwood will both be eligible to rejoin the roster after three games. Hurney said Apple’s ankle injury was a factor in claiming Douglas since the Panthers knew they’d be down a cornerback.

This ankle injury is unrelated to what Apple dealt with at the close of 2019 when he missed Week 17 and the postseason with the Saints.

One of the more concerning injury situations heading into Week 1 is the status of left guard Dennis Daley, who’s dealing with an ankle injury. But if he has to miss time, Carolina is comfortable with seven-year veteran Michael Schofield.

“He’s always going to make sure he’s in the right position. He’s good with his hands. He’s an excellent technician,” Hurney said. “We feel fortunate to have a guy like that be able to go in there.”