Tomorrow’s task against one of the NFL’s elite just got a little taller for the Carolina Panthers.
As announced on Saturday afternoon, the team has downgraded outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney out of their Week 14 matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles. Clowney, who did not participate in practice throughout the week due to a knee injury, was listed as questionable for the contest on Friday.
Despite Clowney’s lack of activity leading into the weekend, this development is somewhat of a surprising one. Head coach Dave Canales told reporters yesterday that he was expecting the former No. 1 overall pick and three-time Pro Bowler to play in Philly.
Clowney currently leads the Panthers in sacks (3.5) and pressures (30) through 13 weeks of play. He’s also one of the team’s top run defenders—making his absence against the 10-2 Eagles, who boast the league’s very top rushing offense, all the more important.
The Panthers have also ruled out safety Nick Scott (hamstring), who did not practice on Friday.
