4 emerging alphas from Carolina Panthers OTAs in 2021
By Dean Jones
Jaycee Horn – Carolina Panthers CB
To say Jaycee Horn looks the part would be something of an understatement. The No. 8 overall selection looks every bit the physical cornerback the Carolina Panthers were looking for this offseason and his previous knowledge of a professional environment from his father Joe Horn has clearly aided his transition from the college ranks.
Horn will be counted on in a big way during his rookie campaign. The Panthers need to sure up their secondary and improve their ability in press coverage, so the South Carolina product needs to have a strong offseason to hit the ground running when competitive action gets underway.
It’s hard not to love the way Horn has shown out during rookie minicamp and OTAs so far.
His athleticism, technique, and never being overawed by the moment have really come across. Even though some sections of the team’s fanbase wanted the Panthers to go with Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields, they made the right call.
Obviously, this strong start will mean nothing if Horn cannot make it count when things get a little more serious.
The pedigree is there and this is matched by competitiveness that also sets him apart. But rookie cornerbacks do tend to endure a baptism of fire against wideouts that make them pay at any given opportunity.
That being said, Horn has more going for him than most, and one cannot be anything other than impressed by his early transition.