Luke Kuechly named defensive player of the year

Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly has been voted the defensive player of the year at the NFL Honours awards.

The 22-year-old wins the award in just his second season in the NFL for recording 156 tackles, two sacks and four interceptions during the 2013 campaign.

He was an integral part of the Panthers defense that was ranked second overall in the league, while his side won the NFC South title with a 12-4 record.

Kuechly edged out St Louis Rams defensive end Robert Quinn and Indianapolis Colts linebacker Robert Mathis for the award.