Sam Franklin Injury History & Analysis

Panthers S Vonn Bell (quad) apparently isn't ready to return just yet. He's doubtful for Sunday's game despite putting in limited practices all week. It'll be Bell's third straight missed game -- and another start for Sam Franklin in his place. Franklin made noise with a 99-yard INT return for a TD back in Week 4, but he has just one game all season with more than 2 solo tackles. He's not a worthwhile option for most IDP leagues. The Panthers might also miss CB Donte Jackson. He's officially questionable despite not appearing on the injury report until Friday, as a full participant.

Panthers S Vonn Bell put in limited practices Wednesday and Thursday, his first action since injuring a quad the Thursday before a Week 6 meeting with the Dolphins. Bell missed that game and last week's win over the Texans, sandwiching a Week 7 bye. But he just might be ready to return Sunday against the Colts. Indy has been a negative scoring matchup for DBs on the season, but Bell's a decent tackle play in just about any spot. His return would send S Sam Franklin back to the sideline.

The Panthers have ruled S Vonn Bell and S Xavier Woods out for Sunday's game against the Dolphins. Woods comes as no surprise, as he's dealing with a multi-week hamstring injury. Bell suffered a quad injury Thursday that kept him out of Friday's practice. Sam Franklin has been starting in Woods' spot and carries tackle upside into a matchup with speedy Miami. We'll see who fills in for Bell. IDP managers would love to get full playing time for Jeremy Chinn, but he played a season-low 30% of the snaps in Week 5, despite injuries at safety and LB. Fifth-round rookie Jammie Robinson is the other SS candidate. You can stash Chinn for now in case he gets the nod, or you could simply avoid the situation (beyond Franklin). We'll watch for more details.