5 potential surprises to watch out for at Panthers camp in 2021
By Dean Jones
Kenny Robinson will show signs of life
It was disappointing to see Kenny Robinson go through some difficulties transitioning to the next level as a rookie. Especially considering he’d already been around a professional environment during a standout spell in the XFL.
The NFL is a completely different ball game, obviously. But Robinson was better prepared than most and what adjustments the safety makes at training camp this year will be vital to his chances moving forward.
Robinson was released by the Carolina Panthers shortly after they selected him in the fifth round. He was brought back onto their practice squad and given an extension earlier this year, but there are no guarantees this comes with a roster spot.
This is a significant challenge for Robinson, who could see an opportunity develop given Carolina’s relative lack of depth behind starting duo Jeremy Chinn and Juston Burris on the backend. The former West Virginia star showed flashes of what he’s capable of at mandatory minicamp, which is something to build upon when the pads go on at camp.
How Robinson copes in preseason games will be equally as important. However, showing signs of life is well within his capabilities and might force the Panthers to think twice about letting him depart for a second time.