CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Carolina Panthers tight end Jeremy Shockey missed his second straight day of practice with a rib injury, but coach Ron Rivera is "optimistic" Shockey will play Sunday at Detroit.
Rivera said Thursday the team will assess Shockey "first thing in the morning."
Shockey has 24 receptions for 311 yards and one touchdown.
Cornerback Captain Munnerlyn and linebacker James Anderson practiced, while linebacker Dan Connor was limited with a shoulder injury. Linebacker Jason Phillips (calf) did not practice.
Rivera also said tailback Josh Vaughan and linebacker Kion Wilson will play on special teams Sunday. Both were signed off the practice squad Wednesday.
Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press