Smith, Minter Out For Preseason Opener

[Dr. Duran Duran]

SPARTANBURG, S.C. -- Wide receiver Steve Smith and safety Mike Minter will miss the Carolina Panthers' exhibition opener against Buffalo on Saturday.

Smith, the NFL's leading receiver last season, missed his 13th straight day of training camp Friday with a strained left hamstring, while Minter is not expected to rejoin the team until next week following the sudden death of his mother on Thursday.

Tight end Kris Mangum, cornerback Marcus Cassel, tackle Dave Kadela, defensive end Devan Long, receiver Daniel Smith and linebacker Sean Tufts also missed Friday morning's practice with injuries and are not expected to play Saturday.

Fox said he plans to play the starters for about a quarter against the Bills.

"It could be less than that based on plays played and what the game brings," said Fox, who added he plans to play all four quarterbacks on the roster.

[go_jays_go]

Hopefully the injuries aren't too serious. I've heard Smith feels fine now, just a little sore.

[eastcoaster]

Hopefully the injuries aren't too serious. I've heard Smith feels fine now, just a little sore.

Yeah, sure hope it's nothing serious. So many hamstring tweaks this year so far.....the heat has to have something to do with it.

[go_jays_go]

Hopefully the injuries aren't too serious. I've heard Smith feels fine now, just a little sore.

Yeah, sure hope it's nothing serious. So many hamstring tweaks this year so far.....the heat has to have something to do with it.

Yup. It's important to have everyone healthy right now, it seems we're really working as a complete team.

[eastcoaster]

Yup. It's important to have everyone healthy right now, it seems we're really working as a complete team.

Yeah, lotsa speculation (again) about us going all the way this season. Early to say, but great to think about.

Nice to be on that end of the spectrum again

[DelhommesFan1]

Im glad he is sitting....hes our play maker...need him completely healthy for this season....im excited about seeing keyshawn tho

[eastcoaster]

Im glad he is sitting....hes our play maker...need him completely healthy for this season....im excited about seeing keyshawn tho

Yep to both of those points.

I am very glad about the addition of Keyshawn...can't wait to see how this will play out.