Panthers Starting FS Godfrey Tears Tendon, Out for Season

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Panthers have announced that free safety Charles Godfrey has torn his right Achilles tendon and is out for the season.

Team spokesman Charlie Dayton made the announcement Monday shortly after coach Ron Rivera's press conference.

Godfrey sustained the injury during the second half of Carolina's 24-23 loss to Buffalo while breaking up a pass to Bills wide receiver Stevie Johnson in the corner of the end zone.

Godfrey's injury is a huge blow to a secondary that was already considered the weak link in Carolina's defense.

Godfrey, a six-year starter for the Panthers, is considered the secondary's best player.

Rivera says the Panthers will re-evaluate the team's other four injured defensive backs — Quintin Mikell (foot), Josh Thomas (concussion), Josh Norman (thigh) and DJ Moore (knee) — on Wednesday.