The sixth-round pick brings elite speed and return ability to a Panthers team in search of special teams firepower. There\u2019s a wave of new talent arriving in Charlotte as the Carolina Panthers kick off rookie minicamp. Alongside their 11 selections from the 2025 NFL Draft and 19 undrafted free agent signings, a host of tryout players are also in the building\u2014each vying for a coveted spot on the 90-man offseason roster.<\/p>\n
One name that\u2019s already turning heads is sixth-round pick Jimmy Horn Jr., the explosive wide receiver out of Colorado taken 208th overall. Known for his big-play ability alongside quarterback Shedeur Sanders over the past two seasons, Horn\u2019s rookie impact will likely begin on special teams. After his first practice, Horn told reporters he\u2019ll be working as both a kick and punt returner\u2014and made it clear he\u2019s excited to be in Carolina.<\/p>\n
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At Colorado, Horn consistently flashed game-changing speed and agility, racking up over 700 all-purpose yards last season. His quick cuts, acceleration, and ability to find lanes in space made him a threat every time he touched the ball. With the Panthers actively seeking more explosiveness in their return game and depth in the receiving room, Horn has a legitimate shot at contributing early.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m here to work,\u201d Horn said. \u201cWhatever the coaches need\u2014returns, receiver, special teams\u2014I\u2019m ready for it.\u201d<\/p>\n
He may thrive especially as a kickoff returner, where he was among the nation\u2019s most dangerous. Across two seasons at South Florida and two at Colorado, Horn totaled 716 kickoff return yards on 46 attempts\u2014averaging 21.7 yards per return\u2014and took one to the house. He added another 90 yards on 14 punt returns.<\/p>\n
Right now, veteran running back Raheem Blackshear appears to be the frontrunner for return duties after handling them in 2024. But if Horn can flash his speed and field awareness throughout the summer\u2014particularly on punts\u2014he could make a serious case for that job.<\/p>\n
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As he begins his path from Colorado to Carolina, Jimmy Horn Jr. looks poised to become one of the Panthers\u2019 most exciting and impactful late-round additions<\/p>\n