Cleveland Browns at Carolina Panthers

Johnny Manziel and the Browns take on the Panthers today in Charlotte.

(Joshua Gunter, The Plain Dealer)

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Browns cornerback Joe Haden is inactive for today's game with his shoulder injury, and safety Jordan Poyer is listed as the starter in his place ahead of No. 8 overall pick Justin Gilbert.



It could, however, depend on the formation the Panthers open in.



On a brighter note for the Browns, linebacker Karlos Dansby will return to action after missing the past four games with his sprained medial collateral ligament.



As expected, Cam Newton, who fractured his lowe back in a car accident just 12 days ago, will start the game. He's 3-8-1 this season and ranked 27th among NFL quarterbacks.



And with the Browns eliminated from wildcard contention thanks to San Diego's victory over the 49ers on Saturday, Johnny Manziel will have no pressure on him today to keep the Browns in the hunt.

Haden, who was in the midst of another Pro Bowl-caliber season, suffered the shoulder injury last week against the Bengals. The Browns are also without nickelback K'Waun Williams (hamstring) and safety Tashau Gipson, who's on injured reserve with his knee injury.



With Haden out, Buster Skrine will have the task of trying to limit big rookie receiver Kelvin Benjamin who's second on the club with 952 yards on 67 receptions, and first with nine TDs.



Tight end Gary Barnidge (ribs) is also inactive, and running back DeAngelo Williams (hand) is idle for the Panthers.





