ESPN "Monday Night Football" analyst Jon Gruden, who presumably remains well-connected in league circles, confidently stated a few weeks ago that 31 general managers would trade their middle linebacker for Kuechly, the reigning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. The Carolina Panthers star has taken the torch from Ray Lewis and Brian Urlacher as the new model for the middle linebacker, capable of covering tight ends and tailbacks and chasing down quarterbacks in the read-option. Don't be surprised if Kuechly makes a serious run at Defensive Player of the Year honors.