Panthers' Ed Dickson: Expected to start Friday

Dickson (groin) is in uniform and expected to start Friday against the Patriots, David Newton of ESPN reports.

Analysis:

With Greg Olsen (back) sitting out Friday, Dickson looks to be his replacement at tight end with the first-team offense. Dickson had been battling a groin injury that had sidelined him for the first two preseason games. He only returned to practice Wednesday, so his conditioning may prevent him from playing a full allotment of snaps with the starters Friday.