Panthers rely on McMillan, Hubbard as injuries thin depth vs Patriots

The Carolina Panthers entered Week 4 with key offensive and defensive absences but kept their top playmakers available for Sunday’s road game against the New England Patriots. Rookie wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan and starting running back Chuba Hubbard were listed as questionable on Friday’s injury report with calf issues but were active for the matchup, while several others were ruled out.

McMillan has emerged as the Panthers’ primary receiving threat this season, leading all rookie pass catchers with 216 yards on 14 receptions from 27 targets and playing more than 80 percent of snaps in each game. Hubbard has carried the bulk of the rushing load, totaling 168 yards on 43 carries through three games and posting a season-high 73 rushing yards in Week 3. Their availability preserved the Carolina game plan’s core elements after a 30-0 win over the Atlanta Falcons that improved the team’s record to 1-2.

The Panthers ruled out wide receiver Xavier Legette (hamstring) and tight end JaTavion Sanders (ankle), with Sanders’ injury described as a high-ankle sprain expected to sideline him for multiple weeks. Starting outside linebackers D.J. Wonnum (hip) and Patrick Jones II...