Panthers' DE Greg Hardy not practicing, status for Sunday uncertain

The Pittsburgh Steelers offense will have their hands full when facing the Carolina Panthers defense this Sunday night, but they might have to do so without Panthers' star defensive end, Greg Hardy.

According to the Associated Press, Hardy did not practice with the team Wednesday, even though head coach Ron Rivera said in his press conference Monday it was his plan for Hardy to join his team in all activities this week.

His availability for the game against the Steelers Sunday is still unclear, but a decision from the NFL in terms of Hardy's domestic-abuse case could be coming down the pipeline.

Hardy was seen leaving the facility Wednesday in street clothes with his agent Drew Rosenhaus. Neither spoke to reporters upon leaving. Rivera was 20 minutes late to practice and, as he walked past reporters, said Hardy would not be participating in workouts today with the team.

In the wake of the Minnesota Vikings handling of Adrian Peterson and his off-field issues, the Panthers very well could have decided to follow a similar path with Hardy.

In the meantime, all we know is Hardy didn't practice Wednesday and his status for the game Sunday night remains uncertain.