It’s hard to imagine a group of NFL reporters that have it much better than those of us who cover the Carolina Panthers. That’s because it’s hard to imagine an NFL head coach who’s as open as Ron Rivera.
While most coaches act like injury information is a matter of national security, Rivera is either willing to be transparent, or, when trying to be secretive, he often can't help himself from sharing.
Wednesday gave us a perfect example.
When first asked about the status of running back Jonathan Stewart, who suffered a foot sprain in Week 14’s win over the Falcons, Rivera said:
"More than likely, Jonathan's going to be out [Sunday against the Giants]."
Rivera then disclosed that running back Fozzy Whittaker or fullback Mike Tolbert will start, depending on personnel groups. Also, rookie Cameron Artis-Payne, who hasn’t been active since Week 7, will get a jersey and have a “big opportunity."
Nearly 10 minutes later, when asked if Stewart’s injury could keep him out a couple of weeks, Rivera replied:
“No, not necessarily,” before adding, "I'll let the cat out of the bag — he's not going to play this week, I'll tell you that right now.
"We're going to be smart about it. [Team doctor Robert Anderson] isn't necessarily concerned, but he does think the foot needs to be rested."
Despite his honesty, Rivera has somehow led the Panthers to a 13-0 start and a run of three straight postseasons. It’s almost like the NFL isn’t the CIA.
But all of that is why many have wondered why the Panthers have been strangely secretive about cornerback Charles Tillman’s knee injury. He's missed the past four games, but Rivera hadn't shared much except for late last month when he said he thought it may be a hyperextended knee.
It’s been a bit more serious than that sounds. According to multiple sources, Tillman has been dealing with a partially torn ACL.
“I know it’s a ligament,” Rivera admitted. “But I’m really not quite sure what they talked about."
The Panthers were willing to be patient with Tillman, hoping he could return for the playoffs. Bené Benwikere’s broken leg accelerated the time frame.
With the Panthers preparing to go to Plan B — promoting cornerback Lou Young from the practice squad — they wanted to see what Tillman could do at Wednesday's practice. They listed the 13-year veteran as a full participant, and if he responds well Thursday morning, he may avoid a trip to injured reserve.
“We’d like to have another week, at least, but with what happened with Bené, we’re trying to push him to make sure he’s ready,” Rivera said.
“We just thought we'd be patient, see how things unfolded, and lo and behold we're in a situation where he came back, practiced well today. He says he feels fine, but again, tomorrow will be a good test."
PANTHERS’ WEDNESDAY INJURY REPORT
Did Not Practice
- TE Greg Olsen (knee): Like he’s had the past few weeks, would've taken a vet day Wednesday, anyway. He’s played in 139 straight games, so it would be surprising to see him sit out this week, even after last Sunday’s scare. “I expect him to do more tomorrow,” Rivera said.
- WR Brenton Bersin (groin)
- S Colin Jones (groin)
- LB David Mayo (hamstring)
- RB Jonathan Stewart (foot)
- WR Jerricho Cotchery (not injury related)
- LB Thomas Davis (not injury related)
- DT Dwan Edwards (not injury related)
- WR Ted Ginn, Jr. (not injury related)
- S Roman Harper (not injury related)
- C Ryan Kalil (not injury related)
- DE Jared Allen (not injury related)
Full
- CB Charles Tillman (knee)