The Carolina Panthers received some heartbreaking news following their 24-20 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Munich, as head coach Dave Canales provided concerning injury updates on three key players who left the game early. The team’s win, which had been a much-needed morale booster after a tough season, was overshadowed by the injuries, leaving fans anxious about the impact on the team’s upcoming games.
Canales revealed that defensive star **Brian Burns**, who had been a dominant force in the game, suffered a strained hamstring late in the third quarter. Burns, who had recorded a sack and was consistently applying pressure to Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, is considered one of the Panthers’ most valuable assets. Canales stated that Burns would undergo further testing to determine the severity of the injury but hinted that it could sideline the Pro Bowler for at least a few weeks, which would be a significant blow to the Panthers’ defense.
In addition, starting running back **Miles Sanders** sustained an ankle injury in the second half. Sanders, who has been a workhorse for Carolina this season, was seen limping off the field after a short gain. Canales indicated that while the injury wasn’t deemed severe, Sanders’ availability for next week’s game against the Falcons would be monitored closely. The Panthers are hopeful that it’s just a sprain, but Sanders’ absence would leave a hole in the backfield.
Finally, **wide receiver DJ Moore**, who had been a bright spot in the Panthers’ passing attack, was diagnosed with a mild concussion after a hard hit in the second quarter. Moore is currently in concussion protocol, and Canales emphasized that the team would follow the NFL’s strict guidelines for head injuries before allowing Moore to return to play.
As the Panthers look ahead, these injuries could drastically impact their already thinning roster, especially as they prepare for a crucial stretch of games.
