Xavier Leggette Kentucky Derby role: Why Panthers WR is at Churchill Downs for 2025 race

Teddy Ricketson

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Xavier Leggette Kentucky Derby role: Why Panthers WR is at Churchill Downs for 2025 race image

The Kentucky Derby is shown to be a high-profile event. Patrons are dressed to the nines with floppy hats and pastel colors as far as the eye can see. 

While the Derby and the NFL don't often have much crossover, it isn't unheard of. Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater announced "Riders Up" at the 2015 Kentucky Derby, instructing jockeys to mount their horses and head to the starting gates. Sean Peyton was the honoree in 206, Baker Mayfield did it in 2019, and Patrick Mahomes said the iconic phrase at the 2023 Kentucky Derby. 

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Panthers wide receiver Xavier Legette will be at the 2025 Kentucky Derby. While he won't announce ' Riders Up', as that honor is Simone Biles', he will have a very important task. Here is more on Legette's role at the 2025 Kentucky Derby. 

Why is Xavier Legette at the Kentucky Derby? 

Legette had a memorable rookie season with Carolina. Those unfamiliar with the wide receiver from his college days were quick to notice he had a heavy Southern accent that was borderline Cajun. He speaks quickly, monotone and many of his teammates have noted having trouble understanding him when he gets going. 

So, of course, it makes plenty of sense that Legette has been chosen to be the NFL's social correspondent at the Kentucky Derby. 

MORE KENTUCKY DERBY

Xavier Legette horses

When Legette scored touchdowns during his rookie season, fans were quick to notice his unique touchdown dance. The wide receiver appeared to get on a horse and rode it down the sideline toward his team's bench. 

This celebration is a nod to his love of horses. As a rookie, Legette said that he first rode a horse when he was five years old. 

"I was about five years old. And ever since I was a little boy—my uncle, he would bring the horses to my house every day for my birthday. And then we'll go out there to the horse stable on the weekend."

Legette also own his own horses. His first is an American Quarter that he named 'Dolla Bill. His newest is named Dime Piece. 

Teddy Ricketson

Teddy Ricketson is a Digital Content Producer at The Sporting News. He joined the team in 2024 after spending the last three years writing for Vox Media as part of its DK Nation/Network team. Teddy does his best to support the South Carolina Gamecocks and Carolina Panthers, but tends to have more fun cheering on the Atlanta Braves. In his free time, he loves spending time with his wife, Brooke, and their two dogs, Bo and Hootie.