GREEN BAY - James Taylor's first NFL stop has ended short of the goal line.

Taylor, the former Ironton star who signed as a free agent July 29 with Green Bay, was waived Wednesday by the Packers who had to make room for wide receiver Kelvin Kight picked up on waivers from St. Louis.

Taylor worked out July 27 for the Packers and put on an impressive performance. The 6-foot, 205-pound former Ironton Fighting Tigers All-Ohio star not only bench pressed 370 pounds, including 225 pounds 20 times, but he ran a blistering 4.38 seconds in the 40-yard dash.

He also went through agility drills, pass coverage and receiving workouts that had Packer coaches split in their opinions, deciding between defensive back and wide receiver.

Taylor may be placed on an NFL Europe roster to further develop his skills. Several NFL players today have played in Europe or with the Arena Football League.

Taylor signed with Ohio University and started at wide receiver in the option-style offense. Thinking Taylor's talents were being wasted, the Ohio coaches moved Taylor to strong safety where he became a starter.

When Taylor was demoted to second team before his senior season, he transferred to NAIA Georgetown, Ky., which utilized a wide-open offense.

However, Taylor did not play either receiver or safety. Instead, he was made a wingback and never cracked the starting lineup.