``He did meet with the medical people and they felt it was in his best interest not to play the remainder of the season,'' coach John Fox said Wednesday.

Morgan was injured after his head hit the turf in the season-opening loss to Atlanta. He hasn't played or practised since and has met with several specialists.

``We're concerned about his livelihood and his health and if that means he doesn't play this year, so be it,'' Fox said.

Fox said last week that Morgan, the Panthers' first-round pick in 2001, does hope to play football again despite the multiple concussions.

``He definitely wants to play again, when he's healthy,'' Fox said.

The Panthers have not placed Morgan on injured reserve, but are expected to this week so they can sign another player. Chris Draft will continue to start in Morgan's place at middle linebacker.

``Chris has done an outstanding job for us,'' Fox said. ``He's a veteran guy who understands the defence.

Meanwhile, Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams will not play this Sunday against Baltimore. Williams sprained his right ankle last Sunday against Cleveland.