Kris Jenkins was ready to step in for the Panthers' defense and re-claim his dominance at defensive tackle after missing 12 games last year.

Jenkins tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. He was injured in the first quarter but didn't realize how severe it was until the third quarter.

"I didn't think it was that bad...it felt like I had hyperextended it at first," he said. "I could still run on the thing. I know that's a little odd."

The Panthers were killed by injuries last year, and things are not going there way to start this season. Kindal Moorehead may be activated next week to play for Jenkins.