Panthers news: Who will replace Jimmy Horn as return specialist after Week 1?
Jimmy Horn Jr.’s second year with the Carolina Panthers ended after just one game as the team waived him on Tuesday following their loss to the Chicago Bears in Week 1 . The Bears devoured the Panthers, 59-37, at Bank of America Stadium on Sunday, with Horn muffing a punt, which led to a field goal for Chicago. It proved to be extra costly for […] The post Panthers news: Who will replace Jimmy…
The Carolina Panthers terminated the contract of return specialist Jimmy Horn Jr. following their Week 1 loss to the Chicago Bears at Bank of America Stadium. The 24-year-old wide receiver's poor performance contributed to the team's defeat, as he mishandled a punt, resulting in a field goal for the Bears. The incident proved costly for Horn, who was drafted by Carolina in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
In the aftermath of Horn's release, the team's unofficial depth chart proposed John Metchie III as the new kick returner, with Xavier Legette as his backup. Metchie, a 26-year-old wide receiver, is making his debut with the Panthers after stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and New York Jets. Last season, he recorded 33 receptions for 274 yards and two touchdowns.
Carolina's head coach, Dave Canales, emphasized the team's need to play smart football. He highlighted the impact of costly turnovers and penalties, which allowed the Bears to capitalize on the Panthers' mistakes in a game they ultimately won 59-37. Metchie could potentially take on the return specialist role in Week 2 against the Atlanta Falcons.
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