CHARLOTTE — After missing last week’s loss to the Bears with a knee injury, wide receiver Curtis Samuel is active for Sunday’s game against the Saints.

Samuel has been a critical third-down target for Carolina this season, recording nine first downs on 13 touches. Overall, Samuel has 19 receptions for 183 yards and 15 carrels for 63 yards.

Cornerback Donte Jackson (toe) and cornerback Eli Apple (hamstring) are also active, which is vital for the secondary against future Hall of Fame quarterback Drew Brees. With cornerback Rasul Douglas on the reserve/COVID-19 list and safety Juston Burris going on the reserve/injured list this week, the Panthers will start rookies Troy Pride Jr. and Sam Franklin at cornerback and safety, respectively.

However, the secondary will get a bit of a break with Saints wide receivers Michael Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders out for Week 7. Thomas