--The team also made one practice squad move, adding defensive end Casper Brinkley while cutting receiver Titus Ryan.

PLAYER NOTES

--WR
Ryne Robinson practiced on a limited basis Wednesday again and he should be cleared to play this week. However, the question is whether or not he'll get a jersey. Jonathan Stewart did a good job on kickoff returns last week, averaging nearly 30 yards per return, while Mark Jones has improved on punt returns and is averaging 10 yards per return. The advantage Robinson has is he can play receiver where Jones can't -- or at the very least, isn't very good.

--LG Travelle Wharton returned to practice Wednesday and the thinking is he will play against the Falcons.

--LG Geoff Hangartner is likely headed back to the bench with the return of Travelle Wharton this week.

--LB Dan Connor tore his ACL this past Sunday and the third-round draft pick in 2008 has been placed on injured reserve.

--RB DeAngelo Williams is likely to start again this week, but don't be surprised if Jonathan Stewart gets more carries. The Panthers are looking to get the running game going against a Falcons team that has struggled to stop the run.

--LB Jon Beason leads the team with 34 tackles.

GAME PLAN: Although Steve Smith is back in the lineup, the Panthers still want to be a running football team against the Falcons this week. Atlanta's defense ranks 23rd in rushing yards per attempt allowing five yards per carry. So expect more of the same from Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams. Look for DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart to split carries again.

MATCHUPS TO WATCH: Panthers WR Steve Smith vs. Falcons CBs Chris Houston and Brent Grimes - Smith has a game under his belt and he looked great last week against the Vikings. However, he was held to just four receptions for 70 yards because the Panthers offensive line couldn't protect Jake Delhomme (5 sacks, 3 fumbles). If the Panthers can buy time for Delhomme, look for Smith to have a big day and find the end zone for the first time this season.

Falcons RB Michael Turner vs. Panthers front seven: Turner has been everything the Falcons hoped for and more, leading the NFL's top-ranked rushing attack with 366 yards and five touchdowns through three games. Carolina ranks 19th against the run, allowing 113 yards per game. However, they've only allowed on rushing touchdown.

INJURY IMPACT: Carolina Panthers left guard Travelle Wharton practiced on a limited basis on Wednesday, his first action since injuring his knee in the season opener at San Diego. The Panthers are hopeful he'll be able to return to the field Sunday against Atlanta, but coach John Fox refused to elaborate on his status.

--Among those who did not practice for the Panthers were safety Chris Harris (knee), defensive end Tyler Brayton (ankle) and Charles Johnson (hamstring), linebacker Na'il Diggs (shoulder) and quarterback Matt Moore.

--Among those who practiced on a limited basis were offensive tackle Jordan Gross (ankle), linebacker Thomas Davis (ankle), receiver Ryne Robinson (knee) and Wharton.