Panthers head coach Matt Rhule said Tuesday that Saunders is dealing with a lower leg strain, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

The extent and severity of the issue remains unclear, but any prolonged absence for the former Ohio State product will make it increasingly difficult to land a spot on the initial 53-man roster. Saunders was elevated to the Panthers' active roster for Weeks 16 and 18 last year, catching both of his targets for 11 yards.