The Carolina Panthers and head coach Ron Rivera is keeping quiet about Daryl Williams availability for Sunday.
There is no question that the Carolina Panthers offensive line has been hit hard this preseason with injuries. The team lost three starters over the course of a few weeks including Daryl Williams, Amini Silatolu and recently Matt Kalil.
While Kalil was placed on injured reserve and will miss at least the first eight weeks of the season, the other two linemen could be available Sunday. Both Williams and Silatolu practiced on a limited basis Wednesday and Thursday, according to the team’s injury report.
While both have returned to practice, Ron Rivera is not tipping his hand if they will be available on Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys. According to ESPN’s David Newton, Rivera said he is confident we won’t know until Sunday who is suiting up at right tackle.
How confident is Panthers coach Ron Rivera that right tackle Daryl Williams (knee) and guard/tackle Amini Silatolu (knee) will be ready to face Dallas? "I'm confident. You guys won't know until Sunday.'' Asked if he anticipated one starting at right... https://t.co/6Xt18NNtkw
— David Newton (@DNewtonespn) September 6, 2018
Of the two linemen in question, Williams is the biggest surprise that there is a chance he could be available for Week 1. The starting right tackle suffered a torn MCL and a dislocated right patella early in training camp and had surgery shortly there after.
While Williams would be the biggest surprise, he would also be the biggest boost for this team. He played well and finished as the 15th best offensive tackle, according to Pro Football Focus.
If Williams is not able to go, the Carolina Panthers would likely start Corey Robinson at right tackle. The Panthers acquired Robinson in a trade with the Detroit Lions right before the roster cutdown however he was dealing with his own injury from the preseason.
However, Robinson was not listed on the Panthers’ injury report and has been able to practice without limitations. There should be no concern about his availability if Williams is not able to go.