LB Jordan Kunaszyk
Luke Kuechly’s sudden retirement punched a huge hole in the team’s linebacker room. Recovering from that blow will require some of the younger linebackers to step up. Kunaszyk looked impressive during the preseason last year, displaying solid instincts and quickness to the ball. He’s also an excellent tackler. If the main backups Jermaine Carter or Andre Smith get injured, Kunaszyk might be able to take their job permanently.