More than two months after he shocked the NFL world by retiring at 28, former Carolina Panthers star linebacker Luke Kuechly reportedly doesn’t have any regrets over his decision and isn’t contemplating a return to football as a player.
Kuechly, who until recently was still listed on the team’s roster, reportedly hasn’t had any second thoughts about his retirement, per The Athletic’s Joseph Person.
The 28-year-old retired in January following eight seasons in the NFL, all with the Panthers after being selected with the No. 9 overall pick in 2012. A seven-time Pro Bowl selection, Kuechly was voted first-team All-Pro in five seasons and earned second-team All-Pro honors twice.
A future Hall of Famer, even in only eight seasons, Kuechly’s passion for the game remains. He reportedly still loves watching film, but wanted to walk away from the game to preserve his health.
Kuechly suffered multiple concussions during his career. He suffered a scary head injury in 2016 that forced him to miss three games. He also suffered another concussion in 2017. After years of numerous hits, Kuechly stepped away from the game during the prime of his career.
He is reportedly considering a career in coaching and could be open to moving into the broadcast booth. Given how well things have gone for Tony Romo with CBS, a future move into the booth could certainly make sense.