Yesterday, former Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly officially went on the reserve/retired list. The team will now be able to spread his cap hit out over the next two years, freeing up space for 2020.
What comes next for No. 59? He may be rejoining the team as a member of the front office.
According to Bill Voth at the team website, Kuechly is considering a position as a pro scout.
It’s hard to think of a more appropriate job for Kuechly now that his playing days are over. His ability to study film and prepare for opponents is one of the main reasons he became the best linebacker of his generation.
As for his old position, it’s unclear at this point who will take over Kuechly’s former role as the team’s middle linebacker and defensive playcaller. Our best guess is Shaq Thompson will take over those responsibilities, but Tahir Whitehead is another possibility. If coach Matt Rhule has made that decision he has not shared it publicly.
