Jaycee Horn – Carolina Panthers CB
It was the shortest of sample sizes. But there is a lot to like about Jaycee Horn‘s chances of becoming a true superstar if there are no further complications on the injury front.
The Carolina Panthers spurned the chance to draft Mac Jones or Justin Fields in favor of Horn at No. 8 overall in the 2021 NFL Draft. This was controversial to some, but it should not detract from what an outstanding talent the cornerback is.
Horn has the size, length, and athleticism to become a shutdown presence at the position. His footwork is absolutely off the charts and being away from the game for so long is clearly something that is motivating the South Carolina product ahead of his sophomore campaign.
The Panthers will ask a lot of Horn next season now that Stephon Gilmore is no longer around. His starting partnership with Donte Jackson will be pivotal to the team’s aspirations and if they perform at the required standard or even above expectations, it could see the duo become one of the league’s best in no time at all.
Should Horn take the necessary strides forward despite his lack of pro experience, then it will cement his status as a foundational piece that can become a consistent difference-maker for the Panthers long-term.