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Luke Kuechly could remain sidelined for Carolina Panthers this weekend

Luke Kuechly of the Carolina Panthers
Image: Luke Kuechly has been out of action since the opening day

Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly could still be absent for Sunday's home game with the New Orleans Saints after suffering concussion.

The 2014 Defensive Player of the Year has not practiced since colliding with Jaguars running back T.J. Yeldon in the second quarter of Carolina's season opening 20-9 win over Jacksonville.  

Kuechly remains in the concussion protocol and Panthers head coach Ron Rivera must wait until he is assessed by medical staff before making a final selection decision for the visit of the Saints, live on Sky Sports.

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Rivera has suggested that Kuechly is "chomping at the bit" to play, but Carolina maintained their unbeaten start to the campaign without the 24-year-old, claiming a 24-17 win at Houston Texans.

This victory came at a cost as wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery is also unlikely to feature at the weekend after injuring his ankle against Houston.   

But defensive tackle Star Lotuleli could return after recovering from a stress reaction in his right foot.

Watch the New Orleans Saints at Carolina Panthers on Sunday at 5.30pm on Sky Sports 2.