Panthers Expect Veteran TE Greg Olsen to Play Week 2 Against Bucs

Greg Olsen has fought through various injuries during his NFL career, especially in recent years, and now just two weeks into his age 34 season, he's already dealing with an ailing back.

Despite being listed as questionable for Thursday night's bout with Tampa, Panthers head coach Ron Rivera said that Olsen is expected to play.

Although officially listed as questionable, #Panthers TE Greg Olsen (back) is expected to play tonight. Coach Ron Rivera told me they were careful with him in 2 practices. “I have no concern about that,’’ he said.
— Ed Werder (@WerderEdESPN) September 12, 2019

Olsen went through two practices this week, during which the Panthers exercised caution to avoid further aggravating his back. It seems that worked, for now, and he'll be lining up on the gridiron at Bank of America Stadium.

Cam Newton and Co. would love to have the former Miami product in the mix against their division rivals, as they look to claim their first victory of 2019.

Here's Carolina's final injury report for Week 2.

Rashaan Gaulden and Greg Olsen both questionable, but the veteran TE practiced in full today and expects to play.https://t.co/5SLniQiQ5G
— Max Henson (@PanthersMax) September 11, 2019

Over the past two seasons, Olsen has combined to play in just 16 games. He didn't miss a start from 2012-16, but age is seemingly catching up to the veteran, as he mulls a career in broadcasting.

Still, he's one of the most talented tight ends in the league, posting three consecutive 1,000+ yard seasons from 2014-16, and logging 57 touchdown receptions in his career.

In Week 1 against the Falcons, Olsen hauled in four receptions on nine targets, picking up 36 yards.