Panthers exercise fifth-year option on Luke Kuechly

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As expected, the Panthers have exercised the fifth-year option on linebacker Luke Kuechly's rookie contract, the team announced Saturday.

Kuechly, who was selected by the Panthers as the ninth overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, is now under contract with Carolina through the 2016 season.

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According to ESPN, his salary next year is expected to average among the 10 highest-paid middle linebackers, which currently sits at about $7.5 million.

Kuechly, 24, had an NFL-best 153 tackles last season and has compiled 473 tackles in 48 starts during his first three seasons. 

In addition to earning consecutive trips to the Pro Bowl in 2013 and 2014, he was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2012 and NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2013.

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