Many people expected the Carolina Panthers to take a linebacker with one of their NFL Draft selections. It was a huge surprise that despite using all their allocated picks on defense, this did not include adding depth to the second level’s interior.
This became an area of considerable need for the franchise this offseason following the shock retirement of Luke Kuechly. The Hall of Fame-bound player called it a day after eight highly productive seasons in Carolina, citing long-term health as a reason behind the decision.
While the Panthers didn’t select a long-term option at the position.