This article was originally published on www.si.com/nfl/panthers/onsi as Carolina Panthers provide huge injury update on crucial playmaker in Week 18.

The Carolina Panthers may be without one of their top offensive weapons for their crucial Dec. 28 home game against the Seattle Seahawks.

According to head coach Dave Canalaes, starting left tackle Ikem Ekwonu is expected to return to the lineup here in Week 17. Ekwonu, who missed last weekend's massive win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers due to a knee injury, was a full participant in practice throughout the week and has been listed without a game designation.

Injuries play a big role in who wins a game, and over the course of the season, it can be a huge factor in who makes the playoffs. By Week 18, which we are now

Five Arizona Cardinals didn't practice on Wednesday: offensive lineman (vet rest day), offensive lineman Evan Brown, safety Kitan Crawford (ankle), wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. (foot/heel) and edge rusher Josh Sweat (ankle. knee). Safety Budda Baker (concussion/thumb) was the only Cardinal limited.

Thankfully for Carolina, he is expected to play, ESPN's Jeff Darlington reported, which is also welcomed news for McMillan's fantasy managers playing in league championships. His injury designation was simply Carolina being as transparent as possible and playing things safe.

The #Panthers have added WR Tetairoa McMillan (illness) to the injury report. He is questionable for the game vs. the #Seahawks. Will have the full inactives list around 11:30am.

See who's in and who's out for the Week 16 matchup between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers on December 21, 2025.

Atlanta’s 27-24 victory over the Rams on Monday night means the Panthers-Buccaneers matchup isn’t quite winner-take-all. If Carolina wins, the Panthers (8-8) would secure the division title. If the Buccaneers (7-9) win,