Kirkwood was elevated from the Panthers' practice squad Saturday, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.
Kirkwood hasn't been active since Week 8, but with Shi Smith (illness) likely sidelined and Robby Anderson (quadriceps) questionable, the team is in need of depth at wide receiver. Even with those potential absences, Kirkwood is likely to work behind at least DJ Moore and Brandon Zylstra.