CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - A key Carolina Panthers starting player is unlikely to play in this Sunday’s season-opening game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, based on the team’s latest .

Left tackle Ikem “Ickey” Ekwonu had emergency surgery to remove his appendix on Aug. 24, and has been “day-to-day” ever since, according to Panthers head coach Dave Canales.

In the days following Ekwonu’s surgery, the Charlotte native -- now entering his fourth NFL season -- was held out of practice until Friday, when he was listed as a limited participant on the Panthers’ injury report. His game status was listed as “doubtful.”

Despite what the injury report said, Canales reiterated that his team was still taking things “day-by-day” in a press conference The Athletic’s Joe Person.

“We’re going to ha

See Full Page