The Carolina Panthers had two starting offensive linemen suffer significant injuries in Week 2 against the Arizona Cardinals. Right guard Robert Hunt tore his left biceps and is expected to miss the rest of the season. Meanwhile, center Austin Corbett sustained a Grade 3 MCL sprain in his left knee, though there was optimism that he would return at some point in the season.
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The good news is that one is inching closer to a return.
Carolina Panthers’ offensive starter returns to practice
According to Joe Person of The Athletic, the Panthers have designated Austin Corbett for return from injured reserve, effectively opening up his 21-day practice window. The versatile interior offensive lineman basically has 21 days to practice with the team before being activated, or he will revert to season-ending injured reserve. The good news is that Corbett is expected to practice on Wednesday.
Panthers have opened Austin Corbett‘s 21-day practice window, as Dave Canales said they would.
— Joe Person (@josephperson) October 15, 2025
Who has filled in at center?
Cade Mays has filled in as the starting center with Austin Corbett sidelined. The Panthers’ former sixth-round pick has played well in relief as the team has seen an emergence in the running game, while going 3-1 in the past four games. With Mays performing well, he isn’t expected to lose the starting center position anytime soon.
Who has filled in at right guard?
Brady Christensen has started the last two games at right guard after the Panthers placed Chandler Zavala on injured reserve with a knee injury in Week 5. The do-everything offensive lineman, too, has done a nice job in relief. With Mays and Christensen performing well, and neither expected to lose their starting positions, Austin Corbett will likely serve as the backup guard and center once he returns.
