Standout Panthers tackle carted off with knee issue

Carolina Panthers right tackle Daryl Williams was carted off the field with his right leg in brace Saturday during the team’s first fully padded practice.

Williams was engaged with two pass rushers during 11-on-11 team drills when his knee bent back awkwardly. Coach Ron Rivera didn’t give specifics on the injury after practice but said Williams was returning to Charlotte, North Carolina, to be examined.

Williams, 25, entering his contract season, started all 16 games at right tackle last season, when Pro Football Focus ranked him as the NFL’s top right tackle and third-best offensive tackle overall.