Panthers waive J.T. Ibe after hit to head on Keith Kirkwood

Defensive back J.T. Ibe (37) watches a drill during the Carolina Panthers training camp at Wofford College. Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

Panthers waive J.T. Ibe after hit to head on teammate Keith Kirkwood

By Chelena Goldman | Last updated 8/3/21

The Carolina Panthers waived defensive back J.T. Ibe on Tuesday following a hit on a teammate during training camp workouts, ESPN reported via the Associated Press.

According to multiple reports, wide receiver Keith Kirkwood had to be taken off the field on a stretcher after he sustained a massive hit to the head and neck area from Ibe.

Here’s the hit from JT Ibe that got him kicked out of practice and saw Keith Kirkwood stretchered off. #Panthers

: @PanthersOnTap

pic.twitter.com/i5WOiBNPS6
— Dean Jones (@DeanJones_) August 3, 2021

Panthers coach Matt Rhule later told reporters Kirkwood had movement in his lower body and wasn't experiencing pain in his neck area.

The early signs sound good on Keith Kirkwood. Matt Rhule says movement in his lower body and no pain in his neck. pic.twitter.com/ZYqwEz6AWb
— Joe Person (@josephperson) August 3, 2021

Kirkwood was sidelined for the better part of the 2020 NFL season after twice breaking his clavicle. He recorded one reception for 13 yards in one game played.

Ibe had just joined the Panthers in April as an unsigned free agent.

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