Carolina Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey was not activated from the injured reserve for Thursday night's game against the Atlanta Falcons (1-6).
McCaffrey returned to practice on Monday and Tuesday and was designated to return from injured reserve after missing the last five games with a high ankle sprain he suffered in Week 2.
However, the NFL Network reported that the Panthers (3-4) never seriously considered activating McCaffrey during the short week.
McCaffrey has a 21-day window from his return designation on Tuesday to practice without counting against the team's 53-man roster.
McCaffrey was wearing a red, non-contact jersey during the open media portion of practice the last two days but changed into a regular practice uniform and helmet on Tuesday.
Rhule said on Tuesday that McCaffrey's return won't "be in a minute too early."
“I know he wants to play, but I also know he’s a process guy and understands we can’t shortcut the process," he added.
The Panthers will have 10 days off in between Thursday's game and a Week 9 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Running back Mike Davis has 517 yards from scrimmage, with two rushing touchdowns and two receiving scores in McCaffrey's absence.
Related
