Panthers’ Week 2 outlook tightens as injuries hit the trenches. Wharton’s hamstring will sideline him 2-4 weeks, testing interior depth while Nijman’s Week 1 effort underscored protection issues. Renfrow’s rib injury adds another cut to the receiving corps, with Jones II limited and Crumedy/Jaden Crumedy stepping into larger roles. Cam Jackson could push for more snaps behind Wharton, reshaping the Panthers’ front seven against Arizona.

Fantasy angles shift quickly: Renfrow’s status could boost other receivers in a game Carolina leans on quick throws and run game tempo. With the rookie interior guys stepping up, IDP edges may see increased opportunity, and Young’s sophomore season starts under new pressure, raising the stakes for Week 2 projections and DFS lineups.

Jaden Crumedy joined Carolina’s 53-man roster ahead of the Week 1 clash with Jacksonville, taking the spot created by Damarri Mathis’ season-ending ACL tear. Crumedy, a sixth-round pick in 2024 from Mississippi State, was sidelined much of his rookie year by a high-ankle sprain but appeared in five games, recording 13 tackles and a half-sack. Mathis was placed on IR, ending his season after joining the Panthers via waivers the same day Crumedy was cut.

The Panthers now lean on a deeper defensive front as they open vs. the Jaguars. Crumedy’s return provides another body in the rotation, and if he harnesses his upside, he could contribute in sub-packages and early downs. Fantasy managers should watch for defensive-line snap counts and any early role changes stemming from Mathis’ absence.

Denver rookie RJ Harvey switches from 37 to 12 on the eve of the 2025 season, joining a 12 lineage that includes Charley Johnson, Gus Frerotte and Paxton Lynch. Harvey is positioned as Payton’s speed back and a receiving option, with a path to early-down protections and targets in the passing game. Week 1 against Tennessee will reveal his immediate role.

Barron swapped No. 12 for No. 23, clearing the way for Harvey to wear 12. Barron isn’t thrilled about the switch, Audric Estime previously wore 12, and both rookies are expected to factor prominently in the opener at Empower Field as the Broncos aim to start 2025 strong against the Titans.

The Carolina Panthers are facing significant challenges midway through the 2024 NFL season, struggling with a depleted roster and the lack of development of their franchise quarterback. The team's injury report is extensive, listing 22 players, while their opponents, the Denver Broncos, have only five.

Key players for the Panthers, including quarterback Andy Dalton and wide receiver Adam Thielen, are among those affected. Meanwhile, the Broncos are dealing with fewer injuries, with star cornerback Pat Surtain II expected to play despite a concussion.