The Carolina Panthers are closer to having one of their top pass catchers back.
As stated by head coach Dave Canales on Friday, the team plans on opening the 21-day practice window for wideout Jalen Coker. The second-year receiver has been working back from a quad strain, which landed him on injured reserve before the start of the regular season.
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Canales was asked about Coker’s status following today’s practice.
“Coker is doin’ great,” Canales replied. “His rehab is going excellent. He’s hitting some top speeds. Now, it’s about capacity, it’s about conditioning, it’s about playing football. And how many plays in a row can we count on him out there? So that’s the part that we’re gonna be able to open up his window and test him to see what he can do next week.”
Carolina signed Coker as an undrafted free agent in the spring of 2024. He went on to amass 32 receptions for 478 yards and two touchdowns as a rookie.
Coker, especially following the trade of veteran Adam Thielen, was expected to take over as the primary slot receiver for the Panthers. His setback, however, kept him out of the first four games—where former Pro Bowler Hunter Renfrow has filled in from the inside.
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Once his practice window is opened, Coker will have 21 days to be added to the active roster.
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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Panthers injury updates: WR Jalen Coker nearing a return to practice