ESPN Reportѕ Pаntһerѕ Poіѕed to Lock Down Stаr Jаycee Horn

Following his best season Horn looks to get a long-term deal done with Carolina

As the NFL cornerback market prepares for an explosive surge, the Carolina Panthers are taking action to lock up one of their brightest young stars, Jaycee Horn. After years of frustration with injuries, Horn’s breakout 2024 season has pushed the Panthers to fast-track contract extension talks. With an eye on a potential market explosion, Carolina knows securing Horn now is key to their long-term defensive plans.

After being sidelined for significant portions of his first three seasons, Horn played 15 games in 2024, showcasing his elite talent and earning his first Pro Bowl selection. His ability to shut down top-tier receivers catapulted him into the conversation of one of the NFL’s best cornerbacks. With 13 passes defensed and a career-high 2 interceptions, Horn’s presence was undeniable. This season was not just a personal victory, but a statement for the Panthers’ defense.

As ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler noted, "They also want to complete an extension with star corner Jaycee Horn sooner rather than later. That market is due for an explosion, with looming deals for Derek Stingley Jr. and Sauce Gardner. So the Panthers are working to get ahead of that.” By acting swiftly, Carolina aims to avoid the bidding war that will surely come when the market resets. Locking up Horn now could save the Panthers significant money in the long run.

General manager Dan Morgan is committed to building a competitive team through smart, long-term investments, and Horn is at the center of that vision. As one of the few proven stars in the defense, Horn’s extension is a priority. The Panthers have learned from past mistakes, like the delayed offer to linebacker Frankie Luvu, and are determined not to let another key player slip away.

With talks progressing positively, it’s expected that Horn’s extension will be finalized soon. For Panthers fans, securing one of the league’s top cornerbacks is a crucial step toward building a championship-caliber defense.