Kuechly Poised to Become Panthers’ 2nd First-Ballot Hall of Famer
Source: Cooper Neill / Getty
Carolina Panthers legend Luke Kuechly could become the second player in franchise history to earn first-ballot induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Kuechly, along with wide receiver Steve Smith, was named a semifinalist for the 2025 Hall of Fame class on Wednesday, Nov. 20. Smith, one of the most dynamic and outspoken receivers in Panthers history, is a four-time semifinalist, per WBTV.
Kuechly, however, could join quarterback Cam Newton as the second Panther to be inducted on the first ballot. Drafted No. 9 overall in the 2012 NFL Draft, Kuechly was a standout linebacker who earned NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2014, Defensive Rookie of the Year honors in 2013, and the Art Rooney Award in 2018.
Though his career was cut short at age 28 due to concussion-related concerns, Kuechly’s impact was undeniable. Over eight seasons, he totaled 1,092 tackles, 12.5 sacks, 7 forced fumbles, and 18 interceptions, cementing his place as one of the NFL’s elite defenders.
