Carolina Panthers lock down Jaycee Horn as NFL’s highest-paid CB

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Steven Corder | Last updated Mar 10, 2025 10:54 AM ET

The Carolina Panthers have just made a bold move to secure their defensive future, locking up star cornerback Jaycee Horn with a four-year, $100 million extension, making him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history. This deal will keep Horn in Charlotte through the 2029 season and is a testament to the Panthers’ commitment to building a championship-caliber defense.

Horn’s new contract comes in at $100 million, with a staggering $70 million guaranteed. At $25 million per year, he now stands as the highest-paid defensive back in the league. This extension follows a standout season in which Horn made his first Pro Bowl, recording 68 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, and 13 pass deflections. It’s clear that the Panthers see him as the centerpiece of their defense moving forward.

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The 25-year-old Horn, drafted No. 8 overall in 2021, has continually exceeded expectations. His on-field performance, including covering top-tier receivers, has been consistently impressive. Despite his rapid development, Horn is already eyeing more: “I could be a way better player. I got a lot of room left to go,” he said after his Pro Bowl selection. With his best years ahead of him, the Panthers are betting on a lot more than just potential.

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By pairing Horn with Derrick Brown, another key first-rounder, the Panthers are shaping a defense that promises to be a force for years to come. General Manager Dan Morgan made it clear that securing Horn was always a priority, and with this extension, Carolina’s defense has the foundation it needs to rise to the next level.

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Horn is here to stay, and Panthers fans can rest easy knowing their cornerback is locked in for the long haul.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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