Carolina Panthers cornerback Jaycee Horn isn’t concerned with the distant future . . . at least not yet.
The fourth-year defender talked with reporters on Wednesday, following his team’s first outing of 2024 training camp. Horn, who’s slated to become a free agent after the 2025 season, was asked if he’s had any talks with the organization about a possible contract extension.
“Nah, I leave that up to my agent and the front office,” Horn replied. “I’m just focused on being available. That’s the main thing.”
Well, the thing is that Horn hasn’t been very available over those four NFL campaigns. Since being selected with the eighth overall pick of the 2021 draft, the University of South Carolina product has missed 29 of a possible 51 games due to numerous injuries.
Nonetheless, the Panthers picked up the fifth-year option on Horn—who’s really a stellar player when he’s actually available. In fact, he’s fresh off earning the highest Pro Football Focus marks of his career, bringing in an 84.1 overall defensive grade and an 83.0 coverage grade from 2023.
He’d then be asked if he thinks an extension could be done before the season starts.
“I don’t even think about extensions,” Horn replied. “Like I said, I’m focused on showin’ these guys I can be available and puttin’ out good tape on Sunday.”
So, for now, Horn is where his feet are. And hopefully, those stay healthy.
