The Carolina Panthers are having a down season, but they do have a few bright spots.
Despite their 4-8 record, the Panthers have a few defensive players that have stepped up this season.
One player in particular who is having a great year is cornerback Jaycee Horn.
Horn was the Panthers’ eighth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.
He missed most of his rookie season with a fractured foot but has come back with vengeance this year.
The 23-year-old has been locking down opposing wide receivers all season.
Horn has allowed only 138 yards in coverage this season, along with only four first-down catches and a 38.3 passing rating.
Jaycee Horn among CBs | min. 200 coverage snaps:
🔒 138 yards allowed (fewest)
🔒 4 first down catches allowed (fewest)
🔒 38.3 passer rating allowed (lowest) pic.twitter.com/b2aABcXvyO
— PFF (@PFF) November 30, 2022
All of those are the fewest in the NFL for a cornerback.
In a lost season for Carolina, Horn has been a major bright spot.
One thing the Panthers can look forward to next season is a strong defense.
Building A Strong Core
The Panthers traded away Christian McCaffrey at the trade deadline and still do not have their franchise quarterback in the building.
But, along with Horn, Carolina has a few strong pieces on defense.
Some names they should be excited about are Brian Burns and Derrick Brown.
Each of these is one of the top players at their respective position.
If the Panthers can fix their offense, the rebuild may not be as long as expected.
Hiring the right coach and having a strong draft will both be reasons for a faster rebuild.
Ultimately, drafting players like Horn will put the Panthers in a good spot long-term.
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