Panthers LB Kuechly to miss Bears game; Benjamin to play

Oct 20, 2017 - 5:43 PM CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly will miss Carolina's game against the Chicago Bears while in the concussion protocol. Wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin and two-time All-Pro center Ryan Kalil are expected to start. Panthers coach Ron Rivera said Kuechly, who was limited in practice Friday, is "progressing nicely" through the concussion protocol. Rivera is hopeful Kuechly can return for next week's game. Kuechly has missed 10 games in the past three seasons because of concussions. Benjamin returned to practice Friday after missing two days dealing with a bursa sac issue in his left knee. Rivera said it is "probable" Benjamin will play on Sunday. Kalil hasn't played since the season opener. He is expected to help a struggling running game. Safety Kurt Coleman is listed as questionable. ___ For more NFL coverage: http://www.pro32.ap.org and http://www.twitter.com/AP_NFL