The Carolina Panthers designated star running back Christian McCaffrey to return from injured reserve on Wednesday.
The Panthers did the same in regard to punter Joseph Charlton. The moves start the 21-day clock for them to begin practicing as they bid to return from their respective injuries.
McCaffrey has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since Carolina’s 24-9 victory over the Houston Texans on Sept. 23. He resumed practicing in a limited capacity before the Panthers elected to place him on injured reserve on Oct. 16.
An All-Pro, McCaffrey has 52 carries for 201 yards and a touchdown to go along with 16 receptions for 163 yards in three games this season. He played only three games in 2020 due to a high ankle sprain and a shoulder injury.
Charlton, who is nursing an ailing back, was placed on injured reserve on Oct. 14.
Lachlan Edwards punted last week and could be elevated from the practice squad again should Charlton be unable to play for the Panthers (4-4) against the visiting New England Patriots (4-4) on Sunday.
