Delhomme returns for Panthers

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Jake Delhomme has recovered from a chest injury, but the Carolina Panthers are without a healthy fullback ahead of Sunday's game at New Orleans.

Delhomme practiced Wednesday, three days after getting hit in the chest while throwing a pass in the win over Arizona. He was taken to a hospital for a CT scan, which showed no internal injuries.

Fullback Brad Hoover sprained his right ankle in the third quarter Sunday and was carted off the field. His backup, rookie Tony Fiammetta, later left with a concussion. Both players missed practice Wednesday.

Receiver Muhsin Muhammad (knee), running back Jonathan Stewart (Achilles' tendon), safety Charles Godfrey (ankle), linebacker Landon Johnson (shoulder) and tight end Dante Rosario (knee) also sat out.