Reeder's Take

   Jon Beason’s knee injury is not serious and he won’t need surgery, according to two sources close to the All-Pro middle linebacker. Beason is hoping to be ready for the regular season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles, although that remains up in the air.

  One source said Beason’s injury ”isn’t serious” and another added that “he won’t need surgery” and that he’s ”shooting for the season opener.”

   While the source wouldn’t say exactly what the injury is, ProFootballTalk.com is reporting Beason has a sprained MCL in his left knee. That’s the same injury that has sidelined WLB Thomas Davis for most of training camp. Depending on the severity of the injury that can be anywhere from two to six weeks which still could put Beason’s availability for the season opener at risk.

   Beason said after the game he didn’t think he tore his ACL, an injury that almost certainly would have ended his season.

   Panthers PR director Charlie Dayton said the team won’t be releasing any information on the injury until Monday at the earliest. (At which time, I predict, Panthers coach John Fox will stand before the media and declare, “It’s a knee. He’s day-to-day.” I know, I’m really going out on a limb here.)

   Obviously Beason won’t play in the final two preseason games. 

   Dan Connor will take the reps with the first-team defense while Beason heals up. Connor has played exceptionally well this preseason. He had seven tackles Saturday night after leading the team with eight tackles in Week 1 against the Giants.

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