Luke Kuechly: Carolina Panthers linebacker expected to play vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly, listed as questionable on the team's Friday injury report, is expected to be cleared from the NFL concussion protocol for Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Kuechly was a full participant in practice Wednesday through Friday after missing last Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears -- the 10th contest the four-time Pro Bowl selection missed in the past three seasons due to concussions.

Coach Ron Rivera told reporters Friday that Kuechly was meeting with the independent physician.

"He's practiced all three days full practice," Rivera said when asked if whether Kuechly would be cleared.

Kuechly, 26, has 46 tackles, one forced fumble and one interception in six games this season.

Pro Bowl center Ryan Kalil will miss his sixth game of the season after being ruled out with a neck injury. He returned last Sunday but left in the first half after re-aggravating the injury.

Safety Kurt Coleman (knee) and kicker Graham Gano (knee/illness) were listed as questionable but Rivera said he expected both to play.