CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers are set to face the Denver Broncos on Sunday without both of their starting wide receivers, Bryce Young, the team’s quarterback, will not have the services of Diontae Johnson and Adam Thielen during his return to the starting role.

Johnson has been dealing with a rib injury and did not participate in any practice sessions throughout the week, leading to his exclusion from the game amidst ongoing trade speculation. Thielen has been sidelined for the previous four games due to a hamstring issue but was eligible to come back this week, yet he will also not be available.

In their absence, rookie players Xavier Legette, Jonathan Mingo, and Jalen Coker are expected to take on the majority of the receiving responsibilities. With the Panthers struggling with a 1-6 record, it seems that the team will heavily rely on the running game, primarily spearheaded by Chuba Hubbard.

Meanwhile, quarterback Andy Dalton, who has taken the snaps for the past five games, is listed as doubtful following a sprained right thumb incurred in a car accident earlier in the week. Dalton’s inability to grip the football has left him sidelined throughout practice, making it unlikely for him to be activated for the matchup. Should Dalton not participate, Jack Plummer from the practice squad is anticipated to step in as the backup quarterback.

Additionally, the Panthers have confirmed that several other players will not be playing on Sunday: safeties Nick Scott (hamstring), Jammie Robinson (knee), and Jordan Fuller (hamstring), as well as linebacker D.J. Wonnum (quadriceps) have all been ruled out.

Rookie running back Jonathan Brooks, a second-round draft selection, is also doubtful to make his debut in the NFL as he continues his recovery from an ACL injury sustained during his final season at Texas.

The Panthers’ injury list also includes several players designated as questionable, including tight end Tommy Tremble (back), linebackers Jadeveon Clowney (shoulder) and Josey Jewell (hamstring), as well as tackles Taylor Moton (elbow) and Yosh Nijman (knee), defensive tackle A’Shawn Robinson (knee), and safety Sam Franklin (foot).