The Carolina Panthers have made a resurgence this season holding one of the top records in the league through the first 12 weeks.
However, the Panthers will be without one of their core pieces on defense for the next month with veteran defensive end Charles Johnson being suspended for four games due to violating the NFL's performance-enhancing substance policy.
#Panthers DE Charles Johnson was suspended 4 games for violating @NFL policy on performance enhancing substances. Can return on Dec. 25.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 1, 2017
The loss of Johnson could have a significant impact defensively as he's been one of the key pieces over the last several seasons. Although he hasn't recorded a sack this year, he has made a sizeable difference against the run as the Panthers are giving up 1.6 fewer yards per rush from 4.9 to 3.3 yards when he's on the field.
Since the announcement of the suspension, the 31-year-old has issued an apology to the organization and the fans for what he deemed as an “error in judgment.”
https://twitter.com/JourdanRodrigue/status/936624639148773376
Head coach Ron Rivera has already declared that former Pro Bowl defensive end Julius Peppers will assume his spot int he starting lineup. The 37-year-old is putting up a productive campaign with 8.5 sacks through the first 11 games of the season. Rookie Bryan Cox Jr. is expected to be active and be part of the rotation at the position.
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