Linebacker Luke Kuechly has been the face of the Carolina Panthers alongside quarterback Cam Newton since the two were drafted in consecutive seasons 2011 (Newton) and 2012 (Kuechly).
Kuechly played the game of football with a passion and intelligence that was second to none. The pre-snap battles between the Panther’s linebacker and opposing quarterbacks at the line of scrimmage was a game within the game that was beautiful to watch.
He always seemed to be one step ahead due to his relentless preparation and unteachable feel for the game.
Kuechly led the league in tackles in 2012 and 2014.