Former Kentucky and current Carolina Panthers linebacker Trevin Wallace had a solid performance in his first career NFL start on Sunday against the Chicago Bears.

Wallace was promoted to starting inside linebacker before the game following injuries to Shaq Thompson and Josey Jewell and it is safe to say he made the most of his new role.

He recorded 15 tackles during the game including 10 solo, both of which were significantly higher than the next closest total for the team.

Two of those tackles were stops on 3rd-and-2 and 4th-and-1 plays in the second quarter that forced Chicago to turn the ball over on downs.

Despite the performances of Wallace and a few others, the Panthers could not contain the Bears’ offense and lost the game 36-10.

Many analysts commended Wallace’s performance after the game, including BVM Sports.

“As the Panthers prepare for their week 6 matchup against the Falcons, Wallace’s role is likely to expand,” BVM wrote. “With Thompson out for the season and Jewell’s status uncertain, Wallace could continue to shine as a critical defensive asset.”

Wallace enjoyed an outstanding career at Kentucky before being drafted in the third round (72nd overall) by the Panthers in the 2024 NFL draft.

In his three-year collegiate career, he played in 36 games and totaled 166 tackles (including 18 for a loss), 10 sacks, two forced fumbles and three interceptions.

He is also well-known for returning a blocked field goal for a touchdown in Kentucky’s 20-13 victory over Florida in 2021 (later vacated) — its first home win over the Gators in 35 years.

Wallace and the Panthers will return to action on Sunday, Oct. 13, at home against the Atlanta Falcons, kicking off at 4:25 p.m. ET on FOX.