As the NFL Draft approaches, the Carolina Panthers are looking to strengthen their roster in hopes of returning to playoff contention next season. In this effort, Panthers legend Cam Newton weighed in on the team’s recent move to lock up cornerback Jaycee Horn.
With the Panthers aiming for a competitive 2024 season, Horn is emerging as one of the key pieces in their plans. The team secured the young cornerback with a four-year, $100 million deal, signaling their commitment to building a stronger defense.
This significant investment reflects the Panthers’ determination to improve in the upcoming season. For Newton, the move demonstrates the team’s alignment with its goal of retaining top talent and bolstering their roster for the challenges ahead.
Appearing on the 4th and 1 Show, Newton offered high praise for Horn, calling him the best player currently on the team. “I think what Jaycee Horn brings to the table is his upside—it’s through the roof. Not only is he tall and rangy, but he can cover anyone on the field, no matter where they are. And that’s rare. He is the best player in Carolina,” Newton said.
Newton’s thoughts on other signings this offseason
With Jaycee Horn’s contract extension, the Carolina Panthers aren’t the only team spending big this offseason. Other franchises, like the Buffalo Bills, have also made notable moves, including extending quarterback Josh Allen and signing three other players to significant contracts. Another standout deal was Myles Garrett’s four-year, $160 million extension with the Cleveland Browns.
On the topic of the Browns, Cam Newton shared his perspective, noting that while Cleveland has a top-tier quarterback, the rest of the roster still has some work to do.
“He [Garrett] ain’t got a ring in Cleveland. The team needs more than just a quarterback—they need an entire game plan. They’ll need more than that to make the playoffs. They’re sitting on the rims, but the car isn’t that great. You need more than that,” Newton said.
Newton also weighed in on the Pittsburgh Steelers, praising their star power with DK Metcalf and George Pickens, but he believes they still lack a key piece. “You’ve got two big-body Mercedes-Benzes in the garage, but you need a sports car. You’ve got the van, but where’s the sports car? They need a tight end to take their offense to the next level. They weren’t that bad last season, but they could be better,” Newton remarked.
Horn’s stats with the Panthers
In his four seasons with the Carolina Panthers, Horn has yet to play in a postseason game, as the team has struggled to reach the playoffs in recent years. Over 37 games, Horn has made 153 tackles, including 3 quarterback hits. He’s also registered 8 tackles for loss and 62 yards in defensive interceptions.