Panthers LB Kuechly still in protocol

Rivera said Kuechly hasn’t suffered any setbacks. “I just need it to be good enough to play, so that’s what I’m aiming for”. Norwood, acquired in a trade with Seattle on September 1, had a ball go through his hands against Houston last week in his first game action with the Panthers. “So we’ve got to kind of kick him out”.

The Panthers will be without veteran wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery, who was ruled out with a high ankle sprain.

Coach Ron Rivera says the 2013 Defensive Player of the Year remains in the concussion protocol.

JOHNSON MISSES ANOTHER PRACTICE: Rivera was asked if he was looking forward to having his entire defensive line rotation available. Cotchery worked inside the stadium with trainers on Wednesday, and Rivera said he’d have a good idea of Cotchery’s status Thursday.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Pro Bowl middle linebacker Luke Kuechly likely will miss his second straight game with a concussion when the Carolina Panthers face the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.

The linebacker was injured in the season opener against Jacksonville following a collision with running back T.J. Yeldon.

“I play a lot of roles”, Webb said. “And he’s going to make the best decisions for himself as well”. Kuechly hasn’t practiced in two weeks.