Luke Kuechly Drafted by Carolina Panthers

Luke Kuechly didn’t have to be at Radio City Music Hall to hear his name called.

Last night, from the comfort of his home in Ohio, he received a call from the Carolina Panthers, informing him that he was their choice at #9 in the 2012 NFL Draft.

With Kuechly’s top-ten, first-round selection, it is the second-consecutive year that BC has had a first-round pick. In 2008 and 2009, the Eagles had 1st-round selections as well, with Kuechly’s being the fourth time in five years. In 2008, Matt Ryan’s year, Gosder Cherlius was also taken in the first round. Kuechly is also one of three former Boston College players in the last several years to be selected in the top ten. BJ Raji, now of the Green Bay Packers, was also selected 9th (in 2009).

Since Matt Ryan was taken third in 2008, including Kuechly, Boston College has gotten eight players taken in the draft.

Carolina had recently shown interest in the BC linebacker, looking to upgrade the unit after another poor overall season. Kuechly’s heat-seeking missile tackling ability means he will be able to instantly contribute.

If interested in consulting Carolina’s 2012 schedule, which is certainly not easy, see here. Kuechly and his new team will face the Eagle-heavy champion New York Giants in Week 3 and Matt Ryan’s Atlanta Falcons in Weeks 4 and 14.

With Kuechly coming off the board, the most notable Eagle remaining is Donnie Fletcher, who is projected to be a Saturday pick.