93 Kyle Love DT

Love had 16 tackles and a career-high 3.5 sacks in the 2017 season.

Love filled the role of a rotational defensive tackle, rarely playing more than 25 defensive snaps in a game. The 31-year-old was able to play all 16 games for the first time since the 2012 campaign, showing he can still handle the rigors of NFL play at his age.

Love (ankle) will play in Sunday's game.

Love had been nursing an ankle injury prior to Sunday, but having practiced this week without any setbacks it seemed likely he would suit up.

Love (ankle) was a full participant in Friday's practice and remains questionable for Sunday's matchup with the 49ers.

After not practicing Thursday, Love's chances of suiting up Sunday seemed grim. Things took a favorable turn, though, and with Vernon Butler (knee) doubtful for the season opener, Love could be positioned for a extra work.

Panthers' General Manager Marty Hurney expressed that Love (ankle) was on track to play Sunday against the 49ers, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

The Panthers rotate their defensive tackles generously, so even if Love is in the second rotation, expect him to still make it on the field a good amount of times. However, due to the shared reps, it hurts Love's chances of becoming a serious fantasy performer.