Panthers have another legend who could be in the Hall of Fame as soon as next year

When Julius Peppers found his way into the NFL Hall of Fame Thursday. 

He isn't the only former Carolina Panthers legend to have a chance at the NFL's highest honor. 

Next season, Panthers linebacker Luka Kuechly could be a first-ballot Hall of Famer. But will he be voted in? That is to be seen. 

During Kuechly's eight-year career, he transformed the linebacker position as the heart and soul of the Panthers' defense. 

Kuechly registered 688 solo tackles and 402 assisted tackles. He also had 12.5 sacks and 18 interceptions. But what made him so special was the level of his instincts. He knew where the ball was going before it went there, and he understood that most of the work to blow up an offensive play came before the snap. 

His play produced seven Pro Bowls and five All-Pro selections.

Now Kuechly could be rewarded for it. And there is no one more deserving. 

The Panthers could have two back-to-back Hall of Fame players. It was fitting for a franchise that has seen tremendous high points and low valleys during its time in the league.