The Pewter Plank
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2016 NFL Draft: The Last Ten Choices at Number Nine

By Alan Schechter

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell announces the number ninth overall pick to the New York Giants in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell announces the number ninth overall pick to the New York Giants in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 7, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly (59) reacts after a play during the second quarter against the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl 50 at Levi
Feb 7, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly (59) reacts after a play during the second quarter against the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl 50 at Levi /

Luke Kuechly

Kuechly was selected in 2012 by the Panthers, and he has been nothing short of fantastic.  Defensive rookie of the year in 2012 was one heck of a place to start, and defensive player of the year the following year was even better.  He has started every game of his career at the all-important position of middle linebacker, known in some circles as the quarterback of the defense.  Kuechly received great responsibility from day one, and has responded with gusto.

He has posted well over 100 tackles every year.  Kuechly has also shown an ability to drop back in coverage and make plays on the ball, picking off four passes on two separate occasions, including last season, helping his team all the way to the Super Bowl.

Needless to say, Kuechly was a solid choice.  Four “Player of the Week” honors tells you all you need to know.

Next: 2013

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