After being picked in the first round in 2012 and playing 8 truly epic seasons with the Carolina Panthers, star line backer Luke Kuechly has just announced that he will be retiring from the game of football.
In a tear jerking video, he said that it is time for him to move on while thanking all the Panthers staff, his family, and all of the fans for their unwavering support and love.
“I think now is the right chance for me to move on,” Kuechly said. “It makes me sad because I love playing this game, I’ve played it since I was a kid. It’s my favorite thing in the world to do. The memories I have from this place and this organization and being on the field with these guys – they’ll never go away. In my heart I know it’s the right thing to do There’s only one way to play this game since I was a little kid – play fast, play physical and play strong. And at this point I don’t know if I am able to do that anymore.”
“In my heart, I know it’s the right thing to do.” pic.twitter.com/mSDyJ0iEMw
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) January 15, 2020
Many are now taking to social media to share their love and support;
Words can’t describe who Luke Kuechly is as a person, friend, and teammate. We have shared countless memories together both on the field and away from it. I feel honored to be his friend and I’ll always appreciate the impact he has had on my life. Love you buddy pic.twitter.com/0DHYkOwDp1
— Greg Olsen (@gregolsen88) January 15, 2020
One of the best LB’s to play dude can flat out run! I’ve also worked @lukeKeuchly camps and one of the most genuine people ever! Find your peace… https://t.co/gAhWTdFJ73
— Coach R. Williams (@MrNoOffseason) January 15, 2020
as well as Kuechly’s truly historic career accomplishments;
Luke Keuchly retired at 28 years old and achieved:
7 Pro Bowls
5 First team All Pro’s
2 Second team All Pro’s
DPOY
DROY
2x Tackles leaderHall of Fame career
— Alejandro 🇨🇴 (@MiamiAlejandro) January 15, 2020
LUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUKE!!!!
Panthers games will never be the same 🙁