Tayvion Robinson signs with Carolina Panthers

The NFL preseason is underway and a former Kentucky Wildcat has a new opportunity ahead of him. Tayvion Robinson signed with the Carolina Panthers on Tuesday, joining fellow former Cat and NFL rookie Trevin Wallace, who was drafted No. 72 overall by the Panthers in April.

One of Kentucky’s top receivers the past two seasons, Robinson signed with the Baltimore Ravens in the spring as an undrafted free agent and was waived in late June. Now, he’s been picked up by the Panthers following the unexpected retirement of running back Rashaad Penny. His experience as a punt returner at Virginia Tech and Kentucky could help his chances of making the Panthers’ 53-man roster or practice squad at the end of training camp.

In two seasons at Kentucky, Robinson totaled 81 catches for 1,049 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. Add in his three years at Virginia Tech and he had 194 catches for 2,604 receiving yards and 14 receiving touchdowns. He also had 67 career punt returns for 639 yards and a score. Last season, Robinson caught 41 passes for 552 yards and four touchdowns.

The Panthers’ preseason kicks off next Thursday vs. the New England Patriots. They’ll also face the New York Jets (Aug. 17) and Buffalo Bills (Aug. 24) before kicking the season off for real vs. New Orleans on Sept. 8. Best of luck to Robinson as he chases a roster spot.