…Punter Hunter Smith (groin) will not play Sunday, meaning Glenn Pakulak, signed to the practice squad Tuesday, will assume the punting duties. The left-footed Pakulak has a career 47.7-yard average on 24 career punts, with a 37.8-yard net. The Redskins will miss Smith’s consistency and might miss his holding, but Pakulak will hold on field goals, too.
…The Redskins will need to cut a player to make room for Pakulak, but coach Jim Zorn said no decision has been made as to who will get cut. Among the candidates: defensive end Renaldo Wynn, who has been inactive for each of the first four games.
…Look for Devin Thomas to get more time Sunday as a reward, Zorn says, for improved play during practice. But Malcolm Kelly will still start. None of the second-round trio has produced, but Thomas, for one, is a lot more relaxed this season than last — especially in the locker room. He’s just a much more pleasant guy to be around. But that means nothing on the field, so it’s time for them to produce. Kelly is still getting used to running routes at an NFL level, knowing how to remain patient on certain routes. That will help him con the DBs more and create more separation, something he has not gotten.
…Defensive tackle Cornelius Griffin (elbow) is questionable for Sunday’s game. His loss would be a good one, but Kedric Golston has played well so it would certainly not be monumental. However, the Panthers — if they’re smart — will test the Redskins on the ground. So losing a key player inside is never good.
…Defensive tackle Anthony Montgomery (knee) is out for Sunday as well. But there’s no threat of him being placed on injured reserve. Monty said he expects to be ready within a couple weeks.
