After Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly on Tuesday at 28 years old, fellow players chimed in on social media to expre s their shock and celebrate his career.

Kuechly, drafted ninth overall in 2012, made Michael Turner Jerseys the Pro Bowl in every season after his rookie year and anchored a Carolina defense that spent a chunk of the past decade as one of the best in the league. But he also struggled with recurring injuries, includingat least three known concu sions between the 2015 and 2017 seasons.

In Brandon Copeland Jerseys an emotional video me sage, Kuechly said the physical tollfootballhad taken on his body contributed to his decision.

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"The onlyway to play this game, since I was a little kid, is to play fast and play physical and play strong,"Kuechly said. "At this point, I don't know if I'm able to do that anymore. That's the part that is most difficult. I Richie Grant Jerseys still want to play, but I don't think it's the right decision."

In my heart, I know its the right thing to do Keith Brooking Jerseys .

Here are some of the reactions from around the NFL toKuechly's retirement:

Words cant describe who Luke Kuechly is as a person, friend, and teammate. We have shared countle s memories together both on the field and away from it. I feel honored to be his friend and Ill always appreciate the impact he has had on my life. Love you buddy

After playing with I didnt think it Fabian Moreau Jerseys was po sible for me to touch the field with another LB of his caliber. Then I went to Carolina. Enjoy retirement !

Easily one of my favorite teammates and one of the top 3 best players that Ive seen. Cant wait to see whats next for you!

One the best humans, friend Calvin Ridley T Shirts , teammate anyone could ever want! Thanks for everything bud! We all love ya!

One of the greatest players of our time! Will never forget playing against you! Good luck in the future!!

In the short time KhaDarel Hodge Jerseys I have been here in Carolina its been a pleasure to learn from you and play with you. Will be mi sed

One of the Best Teammates Ive ever had! Michael Vick T Shirts The 1st person you meet when you come into the locker room. Always told people Id teach my son to be like you! Youre the model of The Standard! Future HOFer! Proud to call you one of the bros! One heck of a career! Love you bro! LUUUUKE!

Wowww. Always loved watching you play. It was a pleasure playing against you. True leader on and off the field. God ble s

As a fellow linebacker in the 2012 draft, Luke Kuechly was the cream of the crop.I respect the hell out of his decision to retire. He mi sed 3 games in 15, Deion Sanders T Shirts & the final 6 games of 16 with a concu sion. He is a hall of famer, but life is more than football.