Mon 1/21/13 7:52 AM

Mike Weaver hasn't been experiencing concussion symptoms for days. Weaver sustained the injury on Wednesday and missed Saturday's contest as a result. However, Weaver downplayed his absence in the season opener. "It's just protocol," Weaver said. "I'm hoping to play [Monday night]." Panthers coach Kevin Dineen is "very optimistic" about Weaver's chances of playing Monday.