OLSEN, BERSIN RETURN IN DIFFERENT CAPACITIES: Tight end Greg Olsen returned to the practice field for the first time in a week Monday, working on the side with the training staff in his continued recovery from back spasms.

"The back finally calmed down," Rivera said. "They worked really good yesterday, actually, and he did some running out here on the field. Hopefully, he'll be back in pads tomorrow."

Wide receiver Brenton Bersin, who suffered a rib injury in the preseason opener Aug. 11, returned to practice in a limited capacity before Saturday's game at Tennessee but did not dress. Monday, he returned to full participation.

"It took about a week for the pain to go down," Bersin said. "I probably could have played Saturday, but they held me out. I should be full-go this week."

Rivera said safety Dean Marlowe could return to practice Tuesday after missing both preseason games with a hamstring injury. Safety Trenton Robinson, who suffered a shoulder injury against the Titans, is set to see a doctor for further assessment.

DEFENSE HAS GOOD DAY: The defense made the majority of notable plays at practice Monday as the Panthers returned from a day off in helmets and shorts. Linebacker Shaq Thompson – off a deflection by safety Tre Boston – and cornerback Robert McClain came up with interceptions. Linebacker Luke Kuechly stuffed a change-of-direction play before it could get started, recently added defensive end Tom Lally blew up a pass play, and cornerback Bene Benwikere continued his strong play.