Cam Newton says the Panthers are making the right decision to sit Luke Kuechly

Luke Kuechly cleared concussion protocol before the Panthers’ Monday Night Football game against Washington, but Carolina coach Ron Rivera decided not to play his star linebacker. Kuechly has been absent from the field since he suffered a scary concussion in Week 11 against New Orleans.

Cam Newton agrees strongly with his coach’s decision.

“Listen. It’s no denying the truth,” Newton told the Charlotte Observer. “At this particular point, our chance of making the playoffs is minimal.”

Then, Newton gave Kuechly some of the highest praise anybody could give a teammate. “Now. Luke is a person that could potentially be the greatest linebacker to ever play. Straight up.” Newton added that he wouldn’t want to risk jeopardizing his career just to bring him back.

Newton also discussed his own experiences with concussions, and how he’s been educated on them more so this season.

“It’s nothing to play with, I can tell you that,” Newton said. “And you see guys who have things stemming back from their concussion years removed from the game.”

Newton also suffered a concussion earlier this season after a big hit against the Atlanta Falcons, and was forced to miss the Panthers’ Monday Night Football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 5.

Kuechly talked to reporters on Wednesday, and said what you’d expect him to say. “Everyone knows I want to play,” Kuechly said. “I enjoy being on the field with the guys. I want to play. I know coach [Ron Rivera] knows that.”

He also said that he felt that everyone’s situation is different, and that he believes his coaches and doctors will make the best decisions for him and his health. “I appreciate those guys want what’s best for you. It’s a thing that we are learning more about. I trust what our doctors have to say.”

As of right now, his status for the last two games of the season has yet to be determined.

In the 10 games that he played this season, Kuechly had 71 tackles, two sacks, one interception, and one forced fumble. He was named a Pro Bowler and a First Team All-Pro the past three seasons, and was likely on his way to another this year.

There’s no question the Panthers would love to have Kuechly back on the field, but it’s also great that they’re willing to understand his presence long-term is much more important than rushing him back.