A strenuous three-game losing streak has the Carolina Panthers searching for answers and for reinforcements. The former may be more difficult to track down, but at least the latter may soon be on their way.
As first reported by NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, the team will open the practice window for newly-acquired cornerback Stephon Gilmore. Gilmore, whose stint on the injured reserve is up, is now eligible to be activated over the next 21 days.
The #Panthers, who traded for #Patriots CB Stephon Gilmore (quad) while he was on the PUP list, are expected to open Gilmore’s practice window this week. He hasn’t practiced in months, so it all may take time. But an important step should happen this week.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 18, 2021
Rapoport also notes that Gilmore, of course, has not seen activity on the practice field in months. He began the 2021 campaign on the six-week IR with the New England Patriots due to the quad injury.
This likely means he will not be ready right from the jump. So don’t expect the Panthers to have the 2019 AP Defensive Player of the Year up for their Week 7 matchup against the New York Giants.
Carolina’s move, though, does signify a necessary step forward for his return. If they’re fortunate enough, Gilmore’s comeback could be accompanied by the arrival of another on-the-mend star in about two weeks’ time.