Panthers' Luke Kuechly: In pads, with helmet Wednesday

Kuechly (concussion) was in pads and holding a helmet before the start of Wednesday's practice.

Analysis:

Once a player reaches a certain point in the concussion protocol, he's allowed to take on non-contact work in practice. If Kuechly indeed practices Wednesday, he'll likely be a limited participant, but the major hurdle he must surpass is clearance from an independent neurologist. Failing to do so this week would result in a three-game absence, the same number of contests he missed last season due to a concussion.