Panthers' Rhule wants Kuechly to join coaching staff 'at some point'

The NFL world was blindsided by the recent retirement of linebacker Luke Kuechly, who had become one of the Carolina Panthers' most respected leaders and beloved players over an eight-year career.

While new Panthers head coach Matt Rhule didn't get the opportunity to work with Kuechly as a player, he's hoping to eventually add the seven-time Pro Bowler to his coaching staff.

"To me, I hope he sticks around. He came in the other day and was watching tape with our coaches," Rhule told SiriusXM NFL Radio on Wednesday. "I hope I can convince him to coach with us at some point. But most importantly, I care about him and (hope) he does what's right for him moving forward."

Despite Kuechly hanging up his cleats at 28 years old, Rhule said the linebacker is a first-ballot Hall of Famer and praised him as the "ultimate team player."

Kuechly, who was drafted ninth overall in 2012, boasts an impressive NFL resume.

In addition to making the Pro Bowl in every season since his first year, he was named Defensive Player of the Year in his sophomore campaign, a first-team All-Pro five times, and Defensive Rookie of the Year.

While coaching could be in Kuechly's future, the linebacker is also exploring broadcasting opportunities, sources told Joe Person of The Athletic.