Conditioning could keep Panthers DT Star Lotulelei out again

Former Carolina first-round pick Star Lotulelei is questionable to play Sunday against the Texans after a week of limited practice, and Panthers coach Ron Rivera voiced concern about the defensive tackle’s conditioning.

Lotulelei hasn’t played in a game since suffering a stress reaction in his surgically repaired foot in early August. He sat out last week against Jacksonville but has practiced three days this week in a limited capacity.

But the Panthers already have four defensive tackles – plus defensive end Kony Ealy when he slides inside to tackle on passing downs – and Lotulelei’s conditioning may not be where the team needs it to justify his spot on the active roster Sunday.

“That’ll be part of the discussion with Star,” Rivera said. “How do we feel? Where’s their conditioning level? How did they recover this morning?”

Lotulelei said this week he believes his conditioning is good enough to contribute to the team this week. Rivera said Lotulelei would have replace at least the 15 snaps Colin Cole gave the team in last week’s victory at Jacksonville.

Weather could be another factor. The forecast high of 88 degrees in Charlotte on Sunday would make this game hotter than last week’s game in Jacksonville.

If Lotulelei does not play, Kyle Love would get the start at defensive tackle beside Kawann Short.

Also Friday, tight end Richie Brockel (shoulder) was limited, as was defensive end Wes Horton (shoulder).

This story was originally published September 18, 2015 at 3:44 PM with the headline "Conditioning could keep Panthers DT Star Lotulelei out again."