Browns, Bengals overlooked Luke Kuechly, now a Hall of Famer
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 4, 2026, 10:45 AM
Last updated Aug 4, 2026
Luke Kuechly is set to be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Class of 2026 in Canton. The Browns had the opportunity to draft Kuechly but selected running back Trent Richardson instead, while the Bengals, who were interested, picked 17th in the draft and missed out. Kuechly, who built a stellar career as a linebacker with the Carolina Panthers, was recognized as NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2013 and became a profound influence on the field throughout his eight seasons before retiring in 2019. His journey is now celebrated as part of Ohio's sporting narrative.
- •Luke Kuechly to join Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2026
- •Browns drafted Trent Richardson over Kuechly in 2012
- •Kuechly played for Carolina Panthers, retiring in 2019
- •Bengals expressed interest but lacked the first-round pick
- •Kuechly's impact included major awards and accolades
- 10:45 AMYahoo Sports — O-H? Uh, no. Buckeyes, Browns, Bengals missed boat on Luke Kuechly
"The Browns had a crack at Luke Kuechly and didn't want him. The Bengals wanted Kuechly but couldn't get him. An Ohioan's Hall of Fame story.
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