Panthers LB Kuechly cleared to play Sunday


Luke Kuechly is the star of a tough Carolina defense. (Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports)
Luke Kuechly is the star of a tough Carolina defense. (Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports)

Middle linebacker Luke Kuechly was cleared to return to practice for the first time since leaving the Carolina Panthers’ Week 1 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Kuechly was diagnosed with a concussion in that Sept. 13 game and did not play against the Texans, Buccaneers or Saints. Still, the Panthers are 4-0 entering Sunday’s game against the Seattle Seahawks.

In addition to Kuechly, Marshawn Lynch is expected to be back for Week 6. Lynch missed the last two games with a hamstring injury.