CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Carolina Panthers star middle linebacker Luke Kuechly remains out of practice with a concussion, raising questions about whether he'll miss his second straight game on Sunday against the New Orleans Saints.

Coach Ron Rivera says the 2013 Defensive Player of the Year remains in the concussion protocol. Rivera refuses to speculate on Kuechly's status, saying the team won't know much until Kuechly meets with physicians.

Rivera says Kuechly is "chomping at the bit" to play.

Kuechly hasn't practiced since colliding with Jaguars running back T.J. Yeldon in the second quarter of Carolina's season opener at Jacksonville. He sat out last Sunday against the Houston Texans.

Rivera also said it is unlikely wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery will play against the Saints. Cotchery suffered a high ankle sprain against Houston.

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