Tom (Kuechly’s father) finally told him, ‘Luke, we don’t want to hear about it anymore. This is what the coaches want you to do. Finally, in 2007, Kuechly got his wish.

Luke Kuechly, 28, announced his retirement from the N.F.L. after eight seasons. ... Luke Kuechly thanked his Carolina Panthers teammates and coaches, his parents and his two brothers, ...

Luke is one of the smartest young men I have ever gotten to get to know, and I’m sure he and his family are going to get together, and be patient, and make the best decision for him moving forward.

Luke Kuechly was emotional as he was carted off the field Thursday night. ... thinking about my family and not going back into the game because I did not feel quite right.

Luke Kuechly: My first year playing football was in fourth grade with the St. Xavier Golden Bears. ... He can still pick out the seats in Section 346 where his parents sat for every home game.