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Panthers won’t have Adam Thielen, Jonathon Brooks on Sunday

Panthers won’t have Adam Thielen, Jonathon Brooks on Sunday

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen and cornerback Jonathon Brooks have been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Thielen is dealing with an ankle injury, while Brooks is nursing a shoulder injury. Both players were listed as questionable on the Panthers’ injury report this week.

Thielen has been one of the Panthers’ most productive receivers this season, catching 27 passes for 323 yards and two touchdowns. Brooks has started all 10 games for the Panthers this season, recording 47 tackles and one interception.

The Panthers will be without several key players on Sunday, including quarterback Sam Darnold (ankle), running back Christian McCaffrey (ankle), and defensive end Brian Burns (knee).

The Panthers are 3-7 this season and are coming off a 24-10 loss to the Atlanta Falcons. The Buccaneers are 6-4 this season and are coming off a 21-15 win over the Los Angeles Rams.

The Panthers will need to find a way to replace Thielen’s production in the passing game. DJ Moore is expected to see an increased role, and Shi Smith could also get more targets.

In Brooks’ absence, Jaycee Horn is expected to start at cornerback opposite Donte Jackson. Horn has been one of the Panthers’ best defensive players this season, recording 35 tackles, two interceptions, and six pass breakups.