Panthers' Kuechly not concerned about shoulder after surgery

Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly dismissed concerns about his surgically repaired shoulder after entering contact Saturday.

Kuechly underwent surgery in February to repair a torn labrum, but didn't appear to be worried after tackling fullback Mike Tolbert during training camp.

"For me, it feels fine," Kuechly said via ESPN's David Newton. "I'm not overly concerned about it. Hopefully, after this practice, everyone else can calm down, too."

Kuechly was named a first-team All-Pro for the third consecutive season, despite missing three games due to a concussion. The standout linebacker recorded 118 tackles, four interceptions, two forced fumbles and a sack in 2015.

Panthers head coach Ron Rivera said Saturday's session alleviated his fears about Kuechly's shoulder.

"Luke looked good," Panthers head coach Ron Rivera said. "You always worry about it. But the very first time we hit the 9-on-7 drill, he steps up and makes a hit. I know as far as he's concerned, now that's off his back having to worry about how he was going to take the first shot."