"The Panthers practiced without two of their starters Friday, although first-year coach Ron Rivera expects both right tackle Jeff Otah and middle linebacker Jon Beason to play Sunday at Arizona.

Both are listed as questionable.

Rivera said he was being cautious with Otah, who missed the 2010 season following arthroscopic knee surgery.

"Just want to be careful with Jeff," Rivera said. "He's practiced really hard. This is the most extended period of time he's practiced without having a day off."

Asked if Otah would play against the Cardinals, Rivera said: "Without a doubt."

Rivera was not quite as confident about Beason, who had surgery Aug. 22 on a bone bruise on his left heel. Beason practiced Wednesday but did not participate Thursday or Friday."