Charlotte, NC (SportsNetwork.com) - The Carolina Panthers expect to have both leading rusher DeAngelo Williams and defensive end Charles Johnson back for Sunday's NFC South showdown with the New Orleans Saints.
Both players were full participants in Friday's practice and are listed as probable on the final injury report. Johnson has been inactive for Carolina's last two games with a sprained knee, while Williams sat out this past week's 27-6 victory over Tampa Bay due to a quadriceps injury.
Williams has recorded 610 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 151 carries in 11 games this season, while adding 19 catches for 160 yards. Johnson tops the Panthers with 8 1/2 sacks and will be a welcome return in a matchup against Drew Brees and the Saints' high-powered passing game.
The Panthers are currently tied with New Orleans atop the NFC South and will bring a franchise-record eight-game win streak into Sunday's pivotal clash.
Running backs Jonathan Stewart (ankle) and Mike Tolbert (knee) are probable as well for this week's matchup, as are offensive tackle Jordan Gross (non- injury), defensive tackle Dwan Edwards (non-injury) and tight end Ben Hartsock (knee).
Guard Chris Scott remains sidelined for Carolina with a knee injury, while reserve linebacker Jordan Senn (hamstring) is doubtful to play.
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