LB RAY-RAY ARMSTRONG

Armstrong continues to play more and more snaps on defense, including a season-high 57 percent last week against New Orleans. His versatility against a versatile Panthers offense will be key in Week 5. "I think the way the game has changed is we've all seen a change over the last few years, is the game has become so horizontal, so spread out, that you have to be able to do those things in space," defensive coordinator James Bettcher said. "And I think Ray-Ray is getting an opportunity to play right now."

CB ELI APPLE

Apple, who has missed the past two games after suffering a groin injury in Week 2 against the Cowboys, was upgraded to a full participant in practice on Thursday, a good sign for Sunday in Carolina.

RB SAQUON BARKLEY

The second overall draft pick can accomplish a statistical milestone reached by just two other players in the NFL's 99-season history. Barkley can join Adrian Peterson and Kareem Hunt as the only players to total at least 100 scrimmage yards in each of their first five career games.

LG WILL HERNANDEZ

The rookie is coming off his "best game" according to coach Pat Shurmur and will be going up against another former second-round draft pick by Dave Gettleman in Panthers defensive tackle Kawann Short. Pro Football Focus gave Hernandez the highest grade among guards with a minimum of 25 offensive snaps in Week 4.

S LANDON COLLINS

Collins is coming off a season-high 14 tackles in Week 4 but is still looking for his first takeaway of 2018. "I absolutely think [sacks and turnovers come in bunches]," defensive coordinator James Bettcher said. "And how do you improve those things? You keep playing hard."