Charles Tillman Injury: Updates on Panthers CB's Groin and Return

Carolina Panthers cornerback Charles Tillman sat out of Saturday night's preseason game against the Miami Dolphins with a groin injury.

Continue for updates.

---

Tillman Returns to Practice After Missing Dolphins Game

Monday, Aug. 24

Max Henson of the Carolina Panthers confirmed Tillman's presence at the session as the team prepares for its third preseason game against the New England Patriots.

The 12-year veteran and two-time Pro Bowler is preparing for his first season with the Panthers and has had problems staying on the field in the past two seasons. Tillman appeared in 10 games from 2013-14 with knee and triceps issues. 

Tillman is set to be the starting cornerback for a Panthers secondary that was ranked as a top-10 unit in 2014, allowing just 227.8 passing yards per game. One of his strong suits, punching the ball out of the carrier's arms, is being coveted by head coach Ron Rivera, as he told the Chicago Tribune:

"

There are points of contact where you try to hold the ball (and) no matter how you look at it, there's always an exposed point. Charles seems to have that focus. He seems to be able to zero in on that. The nice thing is it's spreading to a lot of our guys.

"

In his last full season in 2012, the former Chicago Bear forced 10 fumbles, showcasing his ability to follow receivers even after they have made the catch. But he also does well in preventing catches with at least two interceptions in 10 of his 12 seasons in the NFL. 

Second-year man Bene Benwikere will back up Tillman if he misses substantial time. Benwikere appeared in 10 games last season, starting six of them while recording one interception and one forced fumble. 

Stats courtesy of Pro-Football-Reference.com