The Carolina Panthers are looking to end a three-game losing streak against the 3-5 New Orleans Saints. But Saturday’s injury updates made the matchup more challenging, with New Orleans activating running back Travis Etienne Jr. and Carolina dealing with several absences and question marks.
## Saints Activate Travis Etienne Jr.
Etienne is set to return for Sunday’s game after missing time with a hamstring injury. The issue surfaced during practice in Week 3, but he was cleared to play against the Raiders that week and aggravated it. New Orleans placed him on injured reserve in Week 4 and opened his 21-day return window this week.
Etienne was limited in practice Wednesday and Thursday before participating fully on Friday. He is expected to play against Carolina. Since he has been out since Week 3, the Panthers could benefit if he needs time to regain his rhythm.
## Panthers’ Injury Report Is a Mixed Bag
Carolina may have limited defensive depth against Etienne and Alvin Kamara. Starting inside linebacker Bobby Okereke, the team’s second-leading tackler with 49 stops and five tackles for loss, missed practice all week with a foot injury and has been ruled out.
That puts added pressure on Devin Lloyd and Tyrel Dodson to contain runs between the tackles. The Panthers also listed starting cornerback Mike Jackson as doubtful with a groin injury, while rookie cornerback Will Lee III is questionable with a hamstring issue.
Linebacker Jaelan Phillips offers a potential boost. He is questionable with a hamstring injury after practicing fully on Friday and is expected to return after missing three games.
Running back Chuba Hubbard is available after resting Wednesday. Jonathon Brooks is doubtful with a groin injury, leaving Trevor Etienne and AJ Dillon behind Hubbard on the depth chart.
