Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly runs an interception back for a touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals in the second half of the NFC championship football game at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina on January 24, 2016. Carolina won 49-15. Photo by Brian Westerholt/UPI | License Photo

Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly warms up before the NFC championship football game against the Arizona Cardinals at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina on January 24, 2016. Photo by Brian Westerholt/UPI | License Photo

Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly celebrates winning NFC championship football game against the Arizona Cardinals 49-15 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina on January 24, 2016. Photo by Brian Westerholt/UPI | License Photo

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Jan. 25 (UPI) -- Luke Kuechly excitedly slapped the hands of admirers following his touchdown in the NFC Championship before slamming on the brakes to aid a fan in need.

The Carolina Panthers linebacker had scored on a fourth-quarter, 22-yard interception off of Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer before beginning his celebration.


As he ran behind the end zone and field goal area, giving handshakes and high-fives to fans, one stumbled from the bleachers and over the retaining wall, landing harshly on the field.

Kuechly quickly stopped the celebration and rushed to the fan. The fan returned to his feet as Kuechly escorted him back toward the stands.

A fan fell out of the stands after Luke Kuechly's interception return for a touchdown. He was helped to his feet by Luke Kuechly. — Mike Persinger (@mikepersinger) January 25, 2016

Kuechly, 24, also had three tackles in the 49-15 victory. The Boston College product was the 2012 defensive rookie of the year and 2013 defensive player of the year.