Panthers Optimistic Jonathon Brooks Plays Against Bears Despite Practice Absence

Carolina's Jonathon Brooks missed his third straight practice with "general soreness," but Panthers coach Dave Canales remains hopeful the team's young running back will be ready for Sunday’s season opener against the Chicago Bears.

Brooks spent time working on the side with trainers Monday while his teammates went through a short, non-padded practice.

"We have to just keep taking it one day at a time," Canales said. "He ran out there today. We’ll see (where he is) and compare it to...