As expected, the Carolina Panthers will be down two more of their defensive starters in Week 10.
Following Tuesday’s walk-through, head coach Frank Reich confirmed that outside linebacker Brian Burns and cornerback CJ Henderson will be out of the Thursday night showdown against the Chicago Bears. Both players left Sunday’s loss against the Indianapolis Colts after sustaining concussions.
“Really, the only two are the concussion guys,” Reich replied when asked if any of his players will definitely be inactive. “Burns and Henderson, they’ll be out. They will be out. That’s all I’m ready to say right now.”
The loss of Burns will, obviously, be a tough one for the defense to absorb—especially with fellow outside backers Yetur Gross-Matos and Justin Houston currently on injured reserve. The two-time Pro Bowl pass rusher currently leads the team in sacks (5.0), quarterback hits (10), pressures (21) and tackles for a loss (nine).
Henderson’s absence may also hit hard considering the Panthers are already without No. 1 corner Jaycee Horn. Dicaprio Bootle, who played in a season-high 42 defensive snaps in Week 9, may continue to see extended time.
