Jimmy Horn Jr. Delivers Clear Statement on Deion Sanders Development

Former Colorado wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. is electrifying when it comes to running routes. His range and deep pass-catching ability should be a benefit to Bryce Young and the Carolina Panthers' offense this season. 

When you have former players like Steve Smith Sr. critiquing your game after being compared to the future Hall-of-Famer, the skies are the limit. Once Horn gets fully acclimated playing at the next level, he'll be able to be a consistent contributor. This comes from being under Deion Sanders and developing into a pro.     

“Playing with Coach Prime, he running the program more like a boys to man type of deal,” Horn said. “You coming in a certain way, and you coming out a certain way.”

The Panthers may have drafted Horn in the sixth round, but he was a steal. They understood his potential and saw the explosiveness he has by getting separation from defenders on tape. Many teams didn’t get a true read on the former Buffs wide receiver. Smith did before the draft when he saw Horns' route running ability and footwork firsthand. 

The one thing that stood out to Smith during Horn participation in CU's Pro Day was how quiet his feet were. Many of the receivers in today’s game give defenders a bit of a cheat code, alerting them when they are getting ready to break on their routes and expecting a pass from the quarterback. This is something that Horn will be using to his advantage this season, like Lad McConkey does for the Los Angeles Chargers.  

The former Buffs receiver brings speed, agility, athleticism, and versatility on special teams. What would be great to see in the Panthers offense is end arounds and double reverses. Horn's ability to stretch the field is a big positive for Carolina's receiving core to keep opposing defenses guessing. Also, he could be used in the return game, which is something he has experience doing as well.  

Horn has definitely left an everlasting impression on the Panthers coaching staff and the Carolina fanbase after minicamp. Because of his work ethic and attention to detail, he should get significant playing time this upcoming NFL season.