5 Marty Hurney draft picks who could be cut by the Panthers in 2021

Kenny Robinson – Carolina Panthers S

• 5th round pick (2020)

Gambling on Kenny Robinson was something the Carolina Panthers were entitled to do on Day 3 of the 2020 NFL Draft. The safety had to fight hard to reach the league after being expelled from West Virginia, with a starring role in the XFL before it disbanded leaving a notable impression on those in power within the organization.

Hopes were high that Robinson’s previous experience in a professional environment would serve him well. However, things didn’t go quite according to plan.

Robinson failed to make a smooth transition, which wasn’t exactly helped by a restricted offseason program due to COVID-19. This saw the player cut by Carolina before being brought back onto their practice squad – eventually featuring in nine games but mostly on special teams.

The Panthers are giving Robinson another chance to prove himself this offseason. Of course, overcoming adversity is something he’s managed to accomplish plenty over the years.

There also appears to be a chance for Robinson to force his way onto the depth chart. Carolina might have their two safety starters locked up in Jeremy Chinn and Juston Burris, but what comes behind them is less certain.

There are no dead-cap complications that come with Robinson’s departure, saving the Panthers $780,000. What comes next will be down to the player and he’ll be someone to keep a close eye on at training camp.