Carolina Panthers coach Ron Rivera said Friday he tentatively expects linebacker Jon Beason will be available to start the team's opening game Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals.
Beason is still recovering from an Aug. 22 surgery on a bone bruise on his left heel. Rivera told the Charlotte Observer that he thought Beason would play Sunday.
"We'll see how he is when we get out there," Rivera said. "They're trying to modify a shoe for him. That's one of the concerns because the shoe seems to be right on that spot."
Beason has not missed a start in his four-year career. Rivera said he expects backup linebacker Dan Connor to see significant playing time even if Beason starts.
For a complete list of Week 1 injuries, see the official injury report.