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The Panthers have exercised the fifth-year option on Kuechly for the 2016 season, the team's official site reports.

The Panthers have exercised the fifth-year option on Kuechly for the 2016 season, the team's official site reports.

Analysis:

Since he was selected ninth overall in the 2012 NFL Draft, Kuechly's production has wildly surpassed expectations, with three 150-plus tackle seasons under his belt. Among his honors along the way are Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2012, Defensive Player of the Year in 2013, and Pro Bowl bids in 2013 and 2014. Upon completion of the upcoming campaign, the Panthers will have the ability to negotiate an extension with the middle linebacker. However, if potential negotiations didn't go as expected, they can rest knowing that Kuechly is tied to the organization through the completion of the 2016 season.

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