Bob Leverone

Carolina Panthers star defensive tackle Star Lotulelei had to be carted off the practice field on Aug. 3 with a foot injury.

Lotulelei was diagnosed with a stress reaction in his right foot and though he missed the first two games of the season, is active for Week 3 against the New Orleans Saints.

On Sept. 11, Panthers head coach Ron Rivera said Lotulelei's foot issue had not turned into a stress fracture and noted the defensive end is nearing a return, per Steve Reed of the Associated Press.

At the time of the injury, Rivera noted the team was treating the injury cautiously and that it was indeed the same foot that Lotulelei suffered a broken bone in back in January, per Reed.

Lotulelei, 25, has become one of the best run-stuffers in the NFL since the Panthers drafted him 14th overall in 2013. His presence in the middle of the defensive line and his ability to attract multiple blockers often keep star linebacker Luke Kuechly free to roam sideline to sideline and make plays.

The Panthers run defense has been dealt a major blow to start the season with Lotulelei's injury and Kuechly suffering a concussion. Thankfully for Panthers fans, Lotulelei is finally available to play.