The Carolina Panthers had a tough year in 2018, but there are plenty of reasons for optimism heading into 2019. The team was 6-2 and appeared destined for the playoffs, until Newton's shoulder gave out. If Newton is fully healthy, which the team insists he will be, there's no reason to think they won't be able to get back to that level.

One of the biggest bright spots on the team is linebacker Luke Kuechly, who continues to dominate. The former Defensive Player of the Year Award winner had another fantastic season in 2018, helping to carry the defense. As we gear up for the 2019 campaign, Pro Football Focus shared some wild grades.

Kuechly received a 90.7 overall grade and a 92.3 grade for his run defense. If you know anything about PFF's grading scale, that's absurd. It's extremely hard to crack 90 on their scale, but Kuechly managed to do it with room to spare. One of the best run defenders in the league, Kuechly will again be the quarterback of the defense in 2019.

Last season, he finished with 130 tackles, 20 for loss, two sacks, and six passes defended. He also recorded an interception and two forced fumbles. Kuechly dealt with serious concussion issues earlier in his career, but he has been able to play in 31 of 32 games the past two years.

The Panthers made some upgrades this offseason, which will hopefully help the team moving forward. They drafted pass-rusher Brian Burns in the first round, who should be able to open things up for Kuechly and others. The Panthers did choose to let Thomas Davis walk in free agency, who had played alongside Kuechly in the linebacking corps for Kuechly's entire career.

Kuechly is still only 28, so he should have plenty left in the tank for 2019 and beyond.