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Luke Kuechly: Carolina Panthers middle linebacker to miss game with concussion

By The Sports Xchange
Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly warms up before the NFC championship football game against the Arizona Cardinals at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina on January 24, 2016. File photo by Brian Westerholt/UPI
Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly warms up before the NFC championship football game against the Arizona Cardinals at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina on January 24, 2016. File photo by Brian Westerholt/UPI | License Photo

The Carolina Panthers ruled out middle linebacker Luke Kuechly for Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears as he remained in the NFL's concussion protocol.

Kuechly suffered a concussion in last Thursday night's 28-23 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. He did not get clearance over the last week of practice, even though he was seen participating in some individual drills.

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Kuechly missed three games in 2015 and six games last season after suffering concussions.

Coach Ron Rivera said Kuechly is "progressing nicely through the protocol."

Rivera said Kuechly will see the doctor Monday morning and he hopes the four-time Pro Bowl selection could play next week at Tampa Bay.

Kuechly, 26, has 46 tackles (29 solo), two pass breakups, one forced fumble and an interception in six games this season.

David Mayo will step into the lineup for Kuechly.

Wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin was listed on Friday's injury report as questionable after missing practice the first two days of the week with a knee injury.

The Panthers also listed center Ryan Kalil (neck) and safety Kurt Coleman (knee) as questionable. Kalil has not played since the season opener but returned to full practice this week. Coleman missed the last two games.

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