Chandler Zavala: Everything you need to know

Zavala (calf), who remains on IR, practiced in full Thursday and is officially listed as questionable for Saturday's wild-card round matchup against Los Angeles. Zavala looks set to return to action Saturday, though Carolina will first need to activate him from IR to the 53-man roster. Starting right guard Robert Hunt (biceps) also remains on IR but is officially listed as questionable after having logged a full week of practice.

Zavala (calf) was designated for return from injured reserve by Carolina on Tuesday. The move opens Zavala's 21-day practice window and gives him a chance to return for Saturday's wild-card game against the Rams. Zavala hasn't played since Week 12 but had been manning right guard for the Panthers prior to his injury. Austin Corbett has started the last four games at right guard for the Panthers after opening the season as the team's starting center.

The Panthers placed Zavala (calf) on injured reserve Saturday, Darin Gantt of the team's official site reports. Zavala is beginning his second stint on injured reserve this season after suffering a calf injury in the Week 12 loss to the 49ers and will now be forced to miss at least four games. In his absence, Jake Curhan will serve as the team's starting right guard.