Panthers ink Luke Kuechly to a five-year extension

Dec 7, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly (59) reacts to a defensive stop against the New Orleans Saints during the third quarter of a game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Panthers defeated the Saints 41-10. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

The Carolina Panthers are locking up another young star, signing linebacker Luke Kuechly to a five-year extension.

First they took care of their franchise quarterback, now the Carolina Panthers are doing what they can to lock-up some security on the defensive side of the football as well. The team agreed to a five-year extension with linebacker Luke Kuechly on Thursday per Rand Getlin of NFL.com.

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The #Panthers and Luke Kuechly have agreed to terms on a 5-year, $62M contract extension, per a source.
— Rand Getlin (@RandGetlin) September 10, 2015

Kuechly becomes the second major defensive player to ink a new deal on Thursday, joining Marcell Dareus of the Buffalo Bills, who signed a six-year, $60 million extension of his own earlier in the day.

Since being drafted 9th overall in the 2012 NFL Draft, the Boston College product has acquitted himself as one of the best linebackers in the NFL. During his three-year career, he leads all defenders with 473 tackles (h/t Rand Getlin), while also tallying six sacks, 29 passes defended, and four fumble recoveries. His approximate value of 42 during that three year span is also impressive.

That performance has led to two AP Defensive Player of the Year awards (2012, 2013), two Pro-Bowl selections (2013, 2014), and two First Team All-Pro nods (2013, 2014).

Kuechy joins Cam Newton in signing on the dotted line long-term with the Panthers this offseason. The quarterback inked a five-year, $103.8 million extension in June.

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