6 Carolina Panthers players who must be off the trade table in 2022
By Dean Jones
Jaycee Horn – Carolina Panthers CB
There’s an out-of-sight, out-of-mind mentality surrounding Jaycee Horn. The South Carolina product and No. 8 overall selection in 2021 looked like a shutdown cornerback before breaking his foot during their Week 3 clash at the Houston Texans, which derailed his progress and cut the player’s rookie season short way ahead of time.
Horn is expected to make a full recovery and play a leading role for the Carolina Panthers in 2022 and beyond. He left the biggest of impressions and even though those in power could have gone in a different direction, that does not detract from what a special talent the corner is.
With Donte Jackson and Stephon Gilmore both out of contract, the Panthers will need Horn more than ever next season. Although the prospect of both leaving at the same time does appear remote depending on their contract demands.
Simply put, Horn is a cornerstone to build around. Not someone that could be considered as a trade piece in pursuit of landing a franchise quarterback.
It’s easy to forget how much the Panthers struggled in press or man coverage before Horn’s arrival. His alpha mentality made a substantial difference and inspired others to perform better, which is a rare trait to have in someone so young.
The sky is the limit for Horn. And hopefully, his long-term injury won’t have any lasting effects.