Carolina Panthers star cornerback Jaycee Horn was involved in a car accident on Wednesday morning, leading to his absence from the team’s joint practice with the Cleveland Browns. Fortunately, the Panthers confirmed that Horn did not suffer any significant injuries, as he was seen on the sidelines during practice after being evaluated by the team’s medical staff.
The accident took place at the intersection of Mint and Morehead Streets while Horn was driving alone. A spokesperson for the Panthers reported that no one else was transported to the hospital as a result of the incident, which is a relief for both the team and Horn’s fans.
Earlier this offseason, Horn signed a landmark four-year, $100 million contract, making him the highest-paid cornerback at the time, a title that has since been surpassed by fellow players Derek Stingley Jr. and Sauce Gardner.
Horn, the former No. 8 overall pick from South Carolina, had an impressive season last year, earning a spot in the Pro Bowl after achieving 68 combined tackles, 13 passes defensed, one interception, and the first two sacks of his career. He allowed just a 51% completion rate when targeted, which ranked him among the top cornerbacks in the league for those targeted 75 times or more.
With the Panthers set to kick off their preseason against the Browns this Friday night, the team’s focus will be on maintaining their momentum despite Horn’s temporary absence from practice. Fans will surely be looking forward to seeing both his talent and the depth of the Panthers’ defense unfold in the coming games.