Report: Kuechly will play when cleared, may practice Wednesday

Despite their season being effectively over at 4-8, the Carolina Panthers reportedly won't shut down star linebacker Luke Kuechly for the remainder of the campaign.

Kuechly has missed the last two games with a concussion - the second of his career - but the Panthers still plan on reinserting him into the lineup when he clears protocol, and he could make the first step in his return by practicing Wednesday, a source told ESPN's Ed Werder.

Due to the scary nature of the concussion, Kuechly's importance moving forward, and Carolina close to being eliminated from playoff contention, it's been speculated that the team could shut him down, even if he's cleared to return.

However, the Panthers' defense has give up 75 points without him, so it appears they're intent on finishing the season strong.