Many Panthers fans have wanted to see someone, anyone other than Byron Bell play left tackle this season. They could get their wish Thursday, and that may not be a good thing.

Bell, who is nursing elbow and knee injuries, will likely be a game-time decision. If he doesn’t play against the Saints, the Panthers will be forced to protect quarterback Cam Newton’s blindside with a number of undesirable options.

David Foucault, who was playing for the University of Montreal last year at this time, may be tasked with protecting quarterback Cam Newton’s blindside. Any while the 6-foot-8 Foucault has intriguing measurables, the Panthers didn’t expect him to be using him right now.

“We thought he was a guy that was going to have time to develop, and later down the line, he may get the opportunity to play,” head coach Ron Rivera admitted. “But he’s been pressed into service.”

The Panthers could also shift Nate Chandler to the left side. But he’s struggled at right tackle, and he’s also dinged up.

Other choices may include guard-tackle Chris Scott, who was unemployed just two weeks ago, or Mike Remmers, who is on his sixth team in two years.

“It’s been a crazy ride,” Remmers said Tuesday, just hours after he signed with the Panthers. I’m really happy to be here, I want to play football, I want to get on the field and try to make a difference.”

Bell hasn’t been great at left tackle, but he also hasn’t been as bad as many believe. And if he doesn’t play against the Saints, Thursday night could potentially turn into a case of ‘be careful what you wish for.’