Mike Jackson is back on the practice field after groin surgery, but can the Panthers count on him Sunday vs. Saints?

Mike Jackson’s waiting is over. The Panthers returned the veteran corner to the practice field after his groin injury required surgery and at least six weeks of rehabilitation, and Wednesday marked his first on-field session since Week 3.

The 21-day practice window began for Jackson this week, giving him his first chance to test his body in team drills. Carolina’s session was described as a slower day because Wednesday was essentially a walk-through, with Thursday expected to raise the intensity and provide a clearer look at where he stands.

Jackson’s return arrives with added pressure inside his season timeline. The team described the groin as the first major health setback of his career and noted he had already missed five games, placing his week-by-week readiness in focus as a contract-year storyline.

Carolina is also in a defensive transition. The Panthers have moved on from defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley after Week 8, promoting defensive line coach Todd Wash to interim defensive coordinator. Jackson acknowledged he has not played in Wash’s style before, and said the approach emphasizes playing fast and attacking rather than overthinking assignments.

The immediate question is how much Jackson can handle before the Panthers open the window against the New Orleans Saints. The team said it will be able to “throw some football” in higher-intensity work Thursday, and Jackson’s participation is positioned as the key variable for whether he can be ready to play.

Carolina’s secondary return picture is still incomplete. The Panthers are still waiting to open the 21-day window for Jaycee Horn, which means Jackson’s availability may not fully settle the depth and matchups the Panthers can use Sunday.