Fansided

Luke Kuechly out with concussion vs. Chargers

By Matt Verderame

Oct 30, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly (59) stands on the field during the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Bank of America Stadium. The Panthers defeated the Cardinals 30-20. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 30, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly (59) stands on the field during the game against the Arizona Cardinals at Bank of America Stadium. The Panthers defeated the Cardinals 30-20. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Carolina Panthers will once again be without star inside linebacker Luke Kuechly, who is still out due to a concussion.

On Sunday, the Panthers will host the San Diego Chargers. They will have to do so without Kuechly, who is still not cleared to resume football activities due to a concussion sustained in Week 11 against the New Orleans Saints. Kuechly’s concussion terrified much of the nation as it happened on the nationally televised Thursday night game.

Kuechly was seen on the field crying hysterically, looking as though he was incredibly hurt. Perhaps he was, and still is. At some juncture, one has to wonder if coming back is the right move. We have seen early retirements in recent seasons, highlighted by Chris Borland walking away after a very promising rookie season with the San Francisco 49ers.

As for the Panthers, their season is all but over. Carolina went 15-1 last year and reached the Super Bowl but has fallen hard to 4-8 in 2016. The team looked completely drained last week on Sunday night against the Seahawks, being blown out 40-7. Without Kuechly, Carolina has little chance to play to its potential, although at this point, it’s too late anyway.

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