Ranking the 7 best Panthers players under 25-years-old in 2021

Jaycee Horn – Carolina Panthers CB

• Age – 21

Jaycee Horn has yet to play a down in the NFL. But the potential surrounding the cornerback cannot be ignored.

The Carolina Panthers spurned the opportunity to select Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields at No. 8 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft in favor of Horn, who was atop their draft board alongside Oregon’s stud left tackle Penei Sewell, who was taken one place higher by the Detroit Lions.

Horn just looks like the sort of prospect that’ll have a hugely productive NFL career. He is a big-bodied corner that has incredible footwork, with his ability to stand up against even the best weapons throughout college football also bringing plenty of success in recent years.

The goal for Horn is simple, to become the best cornerback Carolina’s ever had in their 26-year history and to reach a Pro Bowl or better level sooner rather than later.

That is some substantial responsibility for Horn right out of the gate. However, the son of former Pro Bowl wide receiver Joe Horn looks more than ready for whatever challenges he’ll come up against as a rookie.

There will be an odd bump in the road. This is not uncommon for first-year players at the position.

Keeping the bigger picture in mind where Horn is concerned is the smart way to go. And who knows, this time next year he could be a lot higher on this list with a smooth transition to the pro ranks.