Head Coach Dave Canales Unexpectedly Announces Another Panthers Player Out for Week 13 vs Rams Due to Bizarre Reason
In a surprising turn during the pregame press conference ahead of the Carolina Panthers' Week 13 clash against the Los Angeles Rams, head coach Dave Canales revealed one more last minute absence. But what truly stunned fans and reporters alike was the unbelievable reason behind it.
“We always remind our players to be careful, both on and off the field. But honestly, I have no idea what to say when someone slips at home and ends up in the ER with a head injury,” Canales said in frustration.
That’s right, a head injury not sustained during practice or a game, but from an everyday accident. And the unfortunate player? Linebacker Claudin Cherelus, a young and steadily rising contributor in the Panthers’ defense.
Cherelus, 26, began his college career at UMass before transferring to Alcorn State. After going undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft, he signed with the New York Jets as a UDFA before being claimed by Carolina off waivers. Since then, he has slowly carved out a role as a valuable special teamer and backup linebacker.
In the 2025 season, Cherelus has appeared in 11 games (2 starts), recording 23 tackles (7 solo, 16 assisted) and 1 pass defensed, showing steady improvement and solid production.
However, due to a serious head injury caused by an off field slip, Cherelus has been ruled out and will not suit up against the Rams. This is another blow to a Panthers defense already dealing with multiple injuries.

Coach Canales emphasized, “We don’t just need focus on the field. We need caution in daily life too. Accidents like these simply can’t happen.”
With Cherelus sidelined, Carolina will have to rely more heavily on backup options such as Kamu Grugier Hill and rookie Bumper Pool, especially against a dynamic Rams offense led by Matthew Stafford.
Panthers fans now look to Coach Canales for another miracle, both on the field and off it.









