Tayvion Robinson Earns First Team Preseason All-American Honors

A fresh face on the Kentucky football roster is receiving preseason accolades before ever officially suiting up for the Wildcats. Tayvion Robinson was tabbed to Pro Football Focus‘ Preseason All-American Team. The UK slot receiver is a first team selection as a punt returner.

In three seasons at Virginia Tech Tayvion Robinson started in 30 games, compiling 113 receptions for 1,555 yards and nine touchdowns. Last fall he led the Hokies in receptions (44) and receiving touchdowns (5). Those numbers are nothing to scoff at, but his efforts on special teams secured him a place on the preseason All-American team.

In 2021 Robinson ranked third nationally in punt return yards with 328. He gained 13.7 yards per punt return, ranking No. 5 in FBS football. He returned one punt 60 yards four a touchdown against the Richmond Spiders.

Kentucky has boasted prolific return men throughout the years, but rarely do they receive this kind of recognition. Lynn Bowden and Randall Cobb were All-Americans, but under the “all-purpose” umbrella. Derek Abney was Kentucky’s last First Team All-American returner in 2002. He also received second team honors the following season.

In addition to his special team duties, Tayvion Robinson is projected to be Will Levis‘ primary target in 2022. Asking him to replicate Wan’Dale Robinson‘s record-breaking season is a lofty task, but this Robinson has the pedigree to keep the chains moving and create big plays in Rich Scangarello’s offense this fall.

Robinson is one of more than 30 SEC players to make PFF’s Preseason All-American Team. See who else made the cut.