Kentucky’s standout junior inside linebacker, Trevin Wallace, has been chosen by the Carolina Panthers in the third round of the 2024 National Football League Draft, marking a significant milestone in his football career. The announcement came Friday in Detroit, as Wallace’s talent and dedication earned him the 72nd overall pick in this year’s draft.
Hailing from Jesup, Georgia, the 6-foot-1, 237-pound linebacker declared for the NFL Draft after an impressive junior season with the Wildcats. Throughout his collegiate career, Wallace proved himself as a formidable force on the field, accumulating 166 tackles, 18.0 tackles for loss, 10.0 sacks, three interceptions, and multiple other impactful plays.
Wallace’s junior season in 2023 showcased his exceptional skills, with notable contributions including 80 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks. His ability to read plays and disrupt opposing offenses earned him recognition as a key defensive asset for the Wildcats. Notably, his interception against Florida set up a pivotal touchdown for Kentucky, highlighting his versatility and game-changing impact.
Even in his earlier years with the Wildcats, Wallace demonstrated his potential with standout performances. His memorable touchdown off a blocked field goal in Kentucky’s victory over Florida during his freshman season underscored his ability to make crucial plays under pressure.
As Wallace transitions to the professional level, his athleticism, versatility, and track record of success position him as a valuable addition to the Carolina Panthers roster. With his determination and passion for the game, Wallace is poised to make a significant impact in the NFL and continue his journey toward excellence on the football field.
Kentucky/NFL Draft Notes:
- This is the sixth straight year UK has had at least one player taken in the first three rounds, the first time that has happened since the 1975-80 drafts.
- This is the sixth straight year that UK has had at least two players drafted, the first time that has happened since the 1986-91 drafts.
- Wallace is the 26th player drafted who played under head coach Mark Stoops at Kentucky, the second player in the 2024 draft, joining defensive back Andru Phillips. Twenty-two of those selections have come in the last six drafts.
- Wallace is the seventh UK linebacker selected since Stoops’ arrival in 2013, joining Avery Williamson, Bud Dupree, Za’Darius Smith, Josh Forrest, Josh Allen and Jamin Davis.
- There have been eight other Wildcats who have played for the Panthers’ franchise in Jeff Brady (1998), Chris Demaree (2003), Otis Grigsby (2006-07), Marlon McCree (2005), Dean Wells (1999-2001), Garry Williams (2009-14), Phil Hoskins (2021-22) and Marquan McCall (2022).
- Wallace is the second Wildcat ever drafted by the Panthers. Phil Hoskins was the first in 2021.
