Luke Kuechly was cleared from the NFL’s concussion protocol Saturday, nearly a month after he was carted off in tears during the Panthers’ Week 11 win over the Saints.
While the Pro Bowl linebacker is now allowed to play, the growing sense is that Kuechly will sit out the remainder of the season as the team will likely be eliminated from playoff contention by Sunday's end, according to Black & Blue Review.
Coach Ron Rivera said Saturday he still views Kuechly as questionable for Monday's game against the Washington Redskins.
“We are excited to have Luke healthy and cleared from the protocol,” Rivera said in a team release. “I know he is extremely motivated to get back on the field and help us win games. Whether he plays this week or not, I don’t know. We have to balance our enthusiasm with what’s best for Luke and the team long term.”
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Fourth-year linebacker A.J. Klein has been starting in Kuechly’s place since Week 12 and will likely finish out his contract year as the starter.
Resting Kuechly, who has now suffered two concussions in as many seasons, is the correct call. The 5-8 Panthers shouldn't risk the health of their franchise defender amid a losing season.