Wide receiver Steve Smith missed his second straight day of practice Thursday with a leg injury. More than likely, Smith is simply resting a nagging injury in an effort to be ready for Sunday.

   Defensive tackle Damione Lewis (shoulder) was the only other player who did not practice.

   The Panthers got good news on Thursday as safety Deke Cooper (shoulder) returned to practice before expected. Running back DeShaun Foster (toe) and cornerback Ken Lucas (hip) also were back on the field.

   No word yet on the quarterback situation, but I'm fully expecting Vinny Testaverde to start unless his Achilles acts up again like it did last Thursday night.