Barrett Ruud said his sore right knee is unlikely to keep him out of Sunday’s big game against Carolina.

Tampa Bay’s active middle linebacker hurt his knee at Denver and didn’t return in Sunday’s 16-13 setback, but Ruud is optimistic he’ll start at Raymond James Stadium against the Panthers, who lead the NFC South at 4-1.

“I think I’ll be fine,’’ Ruud said Monday. “Hopefully, it feels a little better each day. It was a freak play yesterday. I fell and looked like a non-athlete. It’s a day-to-day thing, but I feel like I should be ready.’‘

Ruud is a key component on a defense that has yielded only eight touchdowns in five weeks. If Ruud is unable to go, second-year pro Adam Hayward figures to make his first NFL start.

“I was sore this morning and I’m sure my knee will be sore most of this week, but soreness is something I can deal with,’’ said Ruud. “Uncertainty is what’s tough—when you question yourself. A littler soreness is no problem and that’s what I’ve got right now.’‘