The Carolina Panthers, currently sitting at a 7-6 record, are leading the NFC South by half a game over the struggling Buccaneers. As they pursue a division championship, the team is optimistic about the return of Pro Bowl right guard Robert Hunt for a portion of the final stretch of the season.
Hunt, who joined the Panthers as one of their significant free-agent acquisitions in 2024, has been sidelined since sustaining a torn biceps in Week 2 and has remained on injured reserve since that time. Earlier this week, head coach Dave Canales expressed hope that the team could open Hunt”s 21-day practice window before the regular season concludes, according to Joe Person of The Athletic. Known for his strong run-blocking abilities, Hunt”s return would provide a substantial boost to an offense that ranks tenth in rushing yards per game this season.
The Panthers have relied on a dual-running back system featuring Rico Dowdle and Chuba Hubbard to support an offense that has struggled with aerial production. However, second-year quarterback Bryce Young has demonstrated resilience, leading four fourth-quarter comebacks and five game-winning drives this year.
Hunt, who is 29 years old, faced injury challenges during his final season with the Dolphins in 2023, limiting him to 11 games. Nevertheless, he was a durable player prior to this season, having been selected in the second round of the 2020 draft. In his absence, the Panthers have utilized several players in the right guard position. Third-year player Chandler Zavala initially took over for Hunt in Week 2, starting in Weeks 3 and 4 before suffering a knee injury that placed him on IR.
Next in line was Brady Christensen, who started four games until a torn Achilles cut his season short. Upon returning to action in Week 9, Zavala encountered an elbow injury, leading to Jake Curhan stepping in. Subsequently, Austin Corbett played right guard in Week 10, marking his first appearance at that position since 2023, although his performance was subpar, leading to his benching in Week 11. Zavala returned to the right guard role in that game and managed to play without injury, but a calf injury during the Panthers” Week 12 loss to the 49ers forced Curhan back into action. Curhan went on to start in Week 13, playing every snap during an unexpected victory over the Rams.
Now, following their Week 14 bye, the Panthers are giving Corbett another opportunity at right guard for Week 15. The 30-year-old lineman won the starting center position during training camp but suffered an MCL injury in Week 2, landing him on IR alongside Hunt. This allowed Mays to step in as the starting center, and his performance has led to discussions about a potential second contract with the Panthers as he heads into free agency.
Given the multitude of injuries affecting the offensive line, it is not surprising that Mays has also missed the last two games due to an ankle injury. However, he has been cleared to play for Week 15 and is set to start on Sunday, with Corbett positioned to his right.
