Panthers’ Kuechly questionable with concussion vs. Chargers

Luke-Kuechly;-Carolina-Panthers;-NFL

Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly. (Mike McCarn/AP)

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Panthers coach Ron Rivera says three-time All-Pro middle linebacker Luke Kuechly will play against the San Diego Chargers on Sunday if he’s cleared from the NFL’s concussion protocol.

The NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2013 has missed the last two games with a concussion.

Kuechly is listed as questionable and Rivera says he hopes he can play, saying "anytime you got your leader out there, it is a doggone good thing."

Defensive end Charles Johnson (hamstring), linebacker David Mayo (concussion) and tackle Daryl Williams (ankle) are out against the Chargers. Defensive end Mario Addison (foot), safety Kurt Coleman (concussion) and cornerback Daryl Worley (concussion) are questionable.

The Panthers also made a roster move, signing linebacker Ben Jacobs and releasing cornerback Robert McClain.

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