Carolina Panthers waive former Ottawa Redblacks training camp cut Roc Taylor

Photo courtesy: Cassie Baker/Carolina Panthers

The Carolina Panthers have waived receiver Roc Taylor, who was in training camp with the Ottawa Redblacks earlier this year.

Taylor signed with the Redblacks on April 20 and played in the first preseason game, catching two passes for 13 yards. He was released on May 24 prior to the second exhibition contest.

The 23-year-old resurfaced more than two months later when he signed with the Panthers. He made three receptions for 27 yards and a touchdown in the NFL preseason, but did not do enough to crack the active roster.

Taylor must now clear waivers, where he could be claimed by any other NFL team. If he goes unselected, he will become a free agent and will then be eligible to be added to a practice roster if an opportunity arises.

The six-foot-three, 215-pound target played 43 games over four seasons at the University of Memphis (2021-24), posting 162 receptions for 2,366 yards and seven touchdowns. He earned first-team All-AAC honours in 2024 and a second-team selection in 2023, landing him an invite to the NFL Combine and an undrafted free agent contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He later played two games with the UFL’s Columbus Aviators, making two catches for 23 yards.

The Panthers will open their 2026 regular season on Sunday, September 13, when they host the Chicago Bears.