The Panthers kick off free agency with a significant move, locking down a key defensive player. Jaycee Horn is staying put.
Carolina Panthers GM Dan Morgan had a long list of tasks this offseason to strengthen the defense, but one priority was ensuring Horn’s long-term future with the team. Both sides were committed to making it happen, and they’ve successfully done so.
That success comes in the form of a groundbreaking contract for Horn, making him the highest-paid defensive back in NFL history for now. While future deals for players like Sauce Gardner and Derek Stingley Jr. may eventually surpass Horn’s, he has secured a major payday.
This deal marks the Panthers’ first major free-agent move, following a few re-signings like Tommy Tremble and Cade Mays. But Horn’s four-year, $100 million contract with $70 million guaranteed is the standout move on the opening day of free agency.
It’s a crucial step forward for Carolina. While the defense still needs more pieces—like additional interior defensive linemen, an edge rusher, a cornerback to pair with Horn, two safeties, and at least one inside linebacker—retaining Horn was essential. Losing him next year would have set their defensive rebuild back even further.
Though Horn’s deal is costly, there’s no denying his value. He’s one of the best cornerbacks in the league, and the Panthers knew that adding talent while letting a star player walk would have been a setback. Fortunately, they’ve avoided that and locked in a player who wanted to stay in Carolina.
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