The Panthers suffered a setback in their game against the Saints when linebacker Shaq Thompson was injured early on. It occurred towards the finish of the initially quarter when Saints’ Taysom Hill created a run and Thompson was involved in the tackle. As Hill was getting brought down, Saints left tackle Trevor Penning accidentally rolled into the back of Thompson’s legs. Panthers defensive lineman DeShawn Williams had been engaged with Penning and pushed him to the ground. In spite of the injury, the Saints continued their drive and at some point kicked a field purpose, tying the score at three-three with 36 seconds remaining in the opening quarter. The Panthers later offered an update, stating that Thompson’s return to the game was doubtful due to a shin injury.