What happened: Carolina placed Jaycee Horn (quad) and Mike Jackson (groin) on injured reserve. Detroit allows 299 passing yards per game this season entering Sunday night.
Why it matters: Carolina must fill two starting boundary spots at once. The timing pairs depleted coverage with an opponent already conceding production through the air.
By the numbers: Lions: 299 passing yards allowed per game in 2026. Horn (2025, Panthers): 37 tackles, 5 interceptions in 16 games. Jackson (2025, Panthers): 68 tackles, 4 interceptions in 17 games.
What to watch: Watch Sunday night inactives and Carolina's starting secondary.