Panthers RB Christian McCaffrey returns to practice, ‘questionable’ for Sunday’s game

Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey made progress toward playing on Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals. He was a limited participant in practice on Friday and carries a “questionable” game status.

McCaffrey landed on Wednesday’s injury report with a thigh injury, which he sustained during the team’s Week 2 home victory against New Orleans. Wednesday also usually serves as McCaffrey’s veteran rest day, but the injury was noteworthy enough that the team had to list him on the report.

McCaffrey did not practice on Thursday, either, and quarterback Baker Mayfield said he was unsure of his star running back’s status.

“(Christian) has gone zero-dark-thirty on us,” Mayfield said Thrusday. “He’s keeping us guessing.”

After Friday’s practice update, receiver Robbie Anderson said he was never concerned about McCaffrey’s status. Panthers coach Matt Rhule exercised similar optimism.

“We are very hopeful Christian will play,” Rhule said.

If McCaffrey is unable to go, running backs D’Onta Foreman and Chuba Hubbard would be in line for increased workloads.

McCaffrey has a notable injury history — which includes long absences due to significant hamstring, ankle and shoulder ailments.

Other injuries

▪ Panthers wide receiver Laviska Shenault is considered a game-time decision. He is dealing with a hamstring injury and was a limited participant during Friday’s practice. He did not practice on Thursday. Rhule said if Shenault cannot play then Hubbard would take on kick return duties.

▪ Defensive end Marquis Haynes is questionable with a knee injury.

▪ Cornerback Stanley Thomas-Oliver III is also questionable with an Achilles injury. He was questionable last week with the same injury but still played.

▪ Tight end Ian Thomas (ankle), safety Xavier Woods (hamstring) and cornerback Donte Jackson (ankle) were limited participants in Friday’s practice but do not carry a game status, meaning they are good to go.

▪ Linebacker Frankie Luvu (shoulder) and cornerback Jaycee Horn (calf) were full participants and will also play Sunday.