Carolina Panthers hope to have LB Luke Kuechly back by Wednesday
Carolina Panthers coach Ron Rivera has spent much of the past two weeks talking about middle linebacker Luke Kuechly’s place in the NFL’s concussion protocol.
But Kuechly could be back at practice Wednesday if he’s cleared by an independent neurologist, the final step before a player can return to practice or games following a concussion. Rivera said he thinks Kuechly is scheduled to meet with the neurologist Tuesday.
“That’s the next step. He’s done everything he’s been told to do. He’s done things the way he’s supposed to do. So we’re very encouraged,” Rivera said Monday. “But we’ve got to approach this cautiously because it is up to the independent doctor.”
Kuechly missed the first two games of his NFL career after an awkward collision with running back T.J. Yeldon during a Week 1 win at Jacksonville. Rivera said Tuesday would be Kuechly’s first visit to the independent neurologist.
Players must return to their baseline status on neurocognitive exams before advancing in the protocol.
Kuechly was animated on the sideline during Sunday’s 27-22 win against New Orleans, encouraging teammates, talking with coaches and offering to help Rivera on a coach’s challenge.
“He was really engaged with the defensive coaching staff, defensive players and he was engaged with me,” Rivera said. “He wanted to throw the (challenge) flag one time, I wouldn’t let him. He was right there.”
In other injury news, outside linebacker Thomas Davis is dealing with a pectoral injury that Rivera does not believe was serious.
Also, wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery remains sidelined with a high ankle sprain. Cotchery missed the Saints game and probably won’t return until after the Panthers’ bye Oct. 11.
Running back Jonathan Stewart injured his calf late in the game and sat out the final series. His injury isn’t considered serious, either.
Joseph Person: 704-358-5123, @josephperson
This story was originally published September 28, 2015 at 5:41 PM with the headline "Carolina Panthers hope to have LB Luke Kuechly back by Wednesday."