Last night, the Carolina Panthers defeated the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC title game by a devastating score 49-15. And while quarterback Cam Newton was flashing huge smiles and dabbing in sweet, sweet victory, there was only one person I wanted to see on my TV screen: linebacker Luke Kuechly. Kuechly is the Panthers’ other star player, and while Cam might represent the glitz and the glam of the NFL, Luke represents the hard work and humbleness that it takes to be a top player in the National Football League. Here are eight reasons you should love him if you don’t already.
1. He is the most humble player in the NFL.
You will never find Luke bragging because he is incredibly down to earth and lets his performances on the field do the talking. Although he is only 24 years old, Luke has already established himself as a leader for the Panthers because he is disciplined, dedicated and leads by example.
2. He has the right priorities.
Luke puts his family, his team, his job and his fans before anything else. He spends hours watching film and working to be better because he wants to make his team better, and he always makes time for fans. Kuechly has been quoted describing his childhood saying, “It was pretty straightforward. Do what you’re told, treat your mom the right way, be nice to people, be respectful.” Honestly so BHH; what more could you ask for.
3. He doesn’t care about fame or money.
Luke is known as one of the hardest workers in the NFL. He is also made fun of because he was reluctant to get a new car or a new TV. And he likes reading nerdy books and hanging out with his older teammates and their families. Pretty big contrast to a lot of NFL stars who love insane cars, hitting up clubs and having multiple "sidepieces."
4. He's smart.
Kuechly is smart on the field, duh, but he also made school a priority. Luke attended college for three years at Boston College before entering the NFL draft in 2012. Don't worry, though, he got his degree from BC in the offseason, so he's a college grad!
5. He has beautiful eyes.
So fire, v flames. And they go perfectly with the Panthers' uniforms.
6. When he smiles, the world smiles.
I'm sorry -- when he is happy and smiling how can you not be? It's just so genuine and joyous and warm and fuzzy -- and you get it.
7. He’s one of the best players in the NFL.
No one can argue this, even if you aren't a fan of Luke and the Panthers. USA Today commented, "What Kuechly has become is arguably the most complete defensive player in the NFL. Since entering the league in 2012, he has collected more interceptions than any other linebacker in the league." Swag. Plus, he has won more awards, been elected to more teams and broken more records than I can add here. Swaggier.
8. He is a perfect person and an absolute gift to the world. That is all.
