The Carolina Panthers will sit their starters in the final preseason game the Pittsburgh Steelers play on Thursday, head coach Dave Canales said.
The Panthers starters have played in each of their first two games, and on a short week, Canales does not want to risk the team health.
They played briefly against the Texans in Houston, and had a lengthy stay in the game during their first preseason game against the Browns.
Both performances have been below the line, with Canales saying the team does not appear in rhythm or sync as he watches his team in practice.
“We have two really important practices before we go into Pittsburgh. The starters will not play this upcoming week. Those practices become so valuable because it’s the last time we have this whole group together and we’re able to get the intensities that we want going into the season,” Canales said.
The Steelers’ plan for this game is unknown, but they have not played most of their starters during the preseason. Head coach Mike Tomlin hinted that Aaron Rodgers, who has played 21 NFL seasons, might not suit up at all during the preseason, but it is possible the Steelers try to have one dress rehearsal before their Week 1 game against the Jets.
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