Ron Rivera says Panthers don't plan on releasing Hardy; playing status remains unclear

Carolina Panthers head coach Ron Rivera confirmed Monday that troubled defensive end Greg Hardy will continuing practicing with the team this week, and that the organization has not even considered a release. 

Notwithstanding, Rivera said in his media availability that the situation remains "fluid," and was non-committal about Hardy's playing status for Sunday night's matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Rivera maintained the team will continuing conducting their "due diligence" with regards to Hardy's alleged domestic incident.  

The 26-year-old, who was inactive in Carolina's Week 2 win over the Detroit Lions, set the Panthers' single-season sack record with 15 last season.