Jaycee Horn played a crucial role against the 49ers, picking off Brock Purdy twice and visibly rattling the San Francisco quarterback. But despite his big night, the Carolina Panthers cornerback was unable to return to the game due to a injury.
Both ESPN and the NFL reported the same update during the broadcast. Horn was officially ruled out with a concussion after he was already seen struggling on the sideline. “Panthers CB Jaycee Horn being evaluated for a concussion; ESPN’s Lisa Salters said Horn was vomiting on the sideline after his second INT,” was one of the first reports shared by Cam Inman.
Horn has recorded five interceptions so far this season. The fact that he was unable to return in a game, such as the one against the 49ers, is highly worrying for Panthers fans, as the absence of a cornerback of his caliber leaves a significant hole in that area of the field.
Who could replace Jaycee Horn?
The most viable option on the depth chart was Corey Thornton, who was also listed as questionable during the game against the 49ers due to a hard hit. Now, the Panthers must figure out their plan for Week 13 against the Rams.
The Panthers’ 6-6 record does not afford them the luxury of losing players, especially on defense. This is particularly true after a game where they managed to intercept Purdy three times but failed to capitalize on those turnovers for touchdowns or more points, making them essentially a waste of opportunity.
The Panthers’ final five games
The season is nearing its end for the Panthers. They must not only play the Rams as part of the final five games of the year but also face the Saints, Buccaneers, and Seahawks, with two of those matchups coming against Tampa Bay (one at home and one in Florida).