JC Jackson returns to training, 13 Patriots players are questionable vs. Panthers

Patriots

Shaq Mason, Jonnu Smith and Dont’a Hightower are among those questionable for the Patriots.

JC Jackson is expected to play in Sunday’s match.

A central Patriots player returned to training on Friday ahead of Sunday’s matchup against the Panthers, but two players were added to the injury report.

Cornerback JC Jackson trained on Friday after missing the Patriots’ first two training sessions this week due to an illness. Punter Jake Bailey (right knee) and receiver N’Keal Harry (knee) were added to the injury report after being restricted at Friday’s training session.

Bailey, Harry and 11 other Patriots players are doubtful for Sunday’s game.

Guard Shaq Mason (belly) and tight-end Jonnu Smith (shoulder) are the other offensive players listed as doubtful for Sunday. Both players were restricted to training all week after playing in last Sunday’s win against the Chargers.

In defense, defensive tackle Christian Barmore (foot), linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley (ribs), defensive lineman Carl Davis (hand), safety Cody Davis (hand), safety Kyle Dugger (neck), linebacker Dont’a Hightower (ankle) , linebacker Josh Uche (shoulder) and linebacker Kyle Van Noy (groin) are all questionable for Sunday’s match. All eight of those players were restricted at all three training sessions this week.

At the Panthers’ end, starting quarterback Sam Darnold is questionable after suffering a concussion in the team’s win over the Falcons last week. Darnold is also dealing with a shoulder injury.

Star runner Christian McCaffrey may return on Sunday after missing the last five games due to a hamstring injury. Panthers head coach Matt Rhule told reporters Friday that he “hopes” McCaffrey returns on Sunday, and if he plays, it will only be with limited reps.

Panthers starting guard Pat Elfein (hoarding) is doubtful about coming back after missing the last six games. Cornerback Stantley Thomas-Oliver is also doubtful with a toe injury.

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