CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Carolina Panthers coach Ron Rivera says middle linebacker Luke Kuechly is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Houston Texans.

The 2013 NFL Defensive Player of the Year has not practiced since sustaining a concussion in Carolina's 20-9 win last Sunday at Jacksonville.

Rivera says Kuechly has yet to be cleared by an independent neurologist before returning to the field. Rivera says "whatever the independent (neurologist) says, that's what we're going with."

If Kuechly doesn't play, A.J. Klein will start in his place.

Defensive tackle Star Lotulelei is listed as questionable after returning to practice this week. He missed four preseason games and the season opener with a stress reaction in his right foot. Fullback Richie Brockel and defensive end Wes Horton are questionable with shoulder injuries.

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