Panthers CB Tillman to miss NFL play-offs with torn ACL

The Carolina Panthers will prepare for the NFL play-offs without Charles Tillman after the cornerback suffered a season-ending torn anterior cruciate ligament.

Tillman left Sunday's 38-10 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a right knee injury, which was later confirmed as a torn ACL by coach Ron Rivera and the Panthers on Monday.

The 34-year-old - in his first season in Carolina after arriving from the Chicago Bears - was appearing in just his third game back since missing four matches due to an injury to the same knee when he was hurt early in the second half.

"It's too bad. The guy has done some good things for us," Rivera said of Tillman who had two intercepted passes, two forced fumbles and 58 tackles in 12 starts for the Panthers.

"He knew exactly what the risks were, but he wanted to play. "He's been a veteran leader and has really helped our guys out, and he's going to be around."

The Panthers (15-1) secured home-field advantage throughout the NFC play-offs with their victory at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.