If the Carolina Panthers had no idea linebacker Luke Kuechly was preparing to retire, Tuesday likely came as a shock. If there is a bright side to the unexpected departure of one of the greatest players in franchise history, it’s the salary cap impact of the move is fairly manageable.
The Panthers are entering the offseason with an approximate projection of $40 million in salary cap space. Kuechly’s retirement will put $8,220,000 million in dead money against their cap, but frees up about $7,290,000 in space.
The major issue facing new head coach Matt Rhule is the fact there isn’t a Luke Kuechly available in free agency. Drafting one, even at No. 7 overall, doesn’t carry high odds on finding a replacement for the former defensive player of the year. Draft Wire’s Luke Easterling sent Auburn defensive lineman Derrick Brown to the Panthers at No. 7 in his most recent mock draft, but serious consideration now has to be given to Clemson LB Isaiah Simmons.
Considering the regime change in Charlotte, and the hefty salary of former MVP Cam Newton, Rhule’s first game might be leading a Panthers team that looks vastly different than it did one year ago.
