The Arizona Cardinals will be significantly shorthanded on Sunday when they face the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C. Head coach Jonathan Gannon announced on Friday that three starters and a key backup will be unavailable due to injuries, adding to the team’s challenges in what has been a tough season.
Among the missing starters is rookie left tackle Paris Johnson Jr., who is sidelined with a knee injury. Johnson, the Cardinals’ first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has been a cornerstone of the offensive line this season, providing stability and protection for quarterback Kyler Murray. His absence will leave a significant hole on the offensive front, forcing the team to reshuffle and rely on less experienced players to fill the void.
Inside linebacker Mack Wilson Sr. will also miss the game after suffering a concussion. Wilson has been a key player in the Cardinals’ defense, bringing physicality and leadership to the linebacker corps. His absence will test the depth of the team’s defense as they prepare to face a Panthers offense led by rookie quarterback Bryce Young.
Outside linebacker Jesse Luketa, dealing with a thigh injury, is another notable absence for Arizona. Luketa has contributed as a pass rusher and edge defender, and his presence has been vital in setting the tone for the Cardinals’ defense. Without him, the team will need to find alternative ways to generate pressure on the quarterback.
Backup running back Trey Benson is also out with an ankle injury. While not a starter, Benson has provided valuable contributions in relief of James Conner, especially in short-yardage and goal-line situations. His absence further depletes an already thin running back group, potentially forcing the Cardinals to lean more heavily on Conner and their passing game.
The injuries come at an inopportune time for the Cardinals, who are looking to build momentum after a challenging start to the season. Facing the Panthers, a team also navigating its own struggles, the game presents an opportunity for Arizona to secure a much-needed win. However, doing so without key players will require a collective effort and standout performances from their remaining starters and depth players.
Coach Jonathan Gannon expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt, saying, “Injuries are part of the game, and we’ve prepared for these moments. It’s next man up, and I trust our guys to step up and compete.”
The Cardinals will need every ounce of resilience and creativity to overcome these setbacks and deliver a strong performance in Charlotte.