CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Panthers coach Ron Rivera says middle linebacker Luke Kuechly has been placed in the NFL's concussion protocol and his status for the team's Nov. 27 game against Oakland is uncertain.
Rivera said Kuechly has no other known injuries.
The 2013 NFL Defensive Player of the Year was carted off the field in an emotional moment during the fourth quarter of Carolina's 23-20 win over the New Orleans Saints on Thursday night. Kuechly appeared to be gasping for breath as he was helped to the cart, and tears rolled down his face. Players from both sides came over to offer their well wishes to Kuechly.
Kuechly spent 34 days last season in the concussion protocol and missed three games.
Rivera described Kuechly's second known career concussion "concerning."
Bills: Team hopeful DT Dareus will play against Cincinnati
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. -- With an additional week off, Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Marcell Dareus might finally be in a position to play his second game of the season.
Philadelphia Eagles
Complete coverage of the Philadelphia Eagles and their NFL rivals from NBC Sports Philadelphia.
Though listing Dareus as questionable on Friday, coach Rex Ryan said he's "feeling pretty good about the big man" playing at Cincinnati on Sunday. Dareus opened the season serving a four-game suspension for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy and then hurt his left hamstring during his first week of practice.
He made his season debut in 41-25 loss to New England on Oct. 30, but missed the following week because of a groin injury. Buffalo (4-5) is coming off its bye week.
Backup defensive tackle Corbin Bryant (shoulder) has been ruled out from playing Sunday.
Ryan says Ryan Groy will start at center in place of Eric Wood, who will miss the remainder of the season with a broken right leg.
