Carolina Panthers: Predicting team leaders in statistics for 2019

Tackles

His nickname is Superman for a reason. Former Boston College product Luke Kuechly has been one of the most consistent players on the Carolina Panthers defense ever sense he came into the league in 2012. I see him leading the Panthers once again in tackles, especially with a revamped linebacker unit.

Just because the unit is revamped, does not mean that is revamped for the better. Thomas Davis is off to LA to join the Chargers. Now, Kuechly will have to provide a stabilizing veteran presence at the position. He was first on the team in tackles last year with 130. The next closest player was quarterback Donte Jackson with 74. Kuechly seemed to play at a high level almost every time he stepped on the field. He had seven games with at least 10 tackles. His season-high for tackles was 13, and he did that three times. The tone for the season was set when he recorded that number against the Dallas Cowboys to begin the season.

.The fact of the matter is, nobody can keep up with Kuechly’s play style. He flies to the football, is a tough football player, and is also a smart football player. That trio is something that is difficult to find. Now as a veteran, he will look to continue his high level of play. One of the things I would worry about him is his concussion history. As long as he can stay healthy, there is no reason to think why he won’t be the leader in tackles again.