Panthers Luke Kuechly Announces His Retirement From The NFL

CHARLOTTE, NC — Luke Kuechly, the star middle linebacker for the Carolina Panthers, is retiring at age 28 from the NFL after eight seasons.

Kuechly made the unexpected announcement in a video posted to the Panthers' website on Tuesday night.

“In my heart, I know it’s the right thing to do.” pic.twitter.com/mSDyJ0iEMw
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) January 15, 2020

"I've been fortunate enough to have the opportunity to play this game since I was in fourth grade," the Panthers' long time captain said in the video. "I've been with the Panthers now for eight years. It's never the right time to step away, but now is the right time for me."

Kuechly was an instant success in Carolina. The tough-nosed defender was the NFL Rookie of the Year in 2012, and the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2013. He finished his career with 12.5 sacks, 18 interceptions and an incredible 1,092 combined-tackles in 118 games played.

It wasn't always easy for the superstar linebacker, though, Kuechly missed 10 games during his NFL career due to concussions. In the 2016 season — Kuechly was carted off the field in tears after suffering his ninth concussion — a moment that soon became intertwined with the NFL's ongoing problem with hits to the head.

Concussions or injuries of any kind were not mentioned in Kuechly's announcement.

Many current and former players for the Panthers immediately took to social media to send well wishes and messages of respect to Kuechly.

That’s why you never miss a chance to cherish those special moments. This last time playing together was one of those moments. https://t.co/WM7o7OkpuZ
— Greg Olsen (@gregolsen88) January 15, 2020

Thank you for some of the best memories both on and off the field. I’m so honored to have shared the field with not just the best player I’ve ever seen, but the best person I’ve ever met. Will always love you bro! To retirement@LukeKuechly
— Christian McCaffrey (@CMC_22) January 15, 2020

Luke kuechly is one of most pure and authentic people i’ve met! He was a great teammate and friend! honored to have played with you! The gridiron will miss your presence but I’m excited to see what the next chapter has for you! love you Bro! #KeepPounding pic.twitter.com/0a6k4urcRu
— Jonathan Stewart (@Jonathanstewar1) January 15, 2020