Jaycee Horn's rookie season might be over.
The Carolina Panthers first-round pick is feared to have broken multiple bones in the metatarsal area in his foot, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported. Surgery is an option as Horn is likely looking at a 2-3 month recovery, which could mean he's done for 2021, Rapoport added. Panthers coach Matt Rhule confirmed later that Horn broke three bones.
The rookie cornerback injured his foot while backpedaling on a pass play during the third quarter of Carolina's Thursday night win against the Texans. He went down without contact and then clutched his right leg before being carted off the field to the locker room. The South Carolina product was taken eighth overall in the 2021 NFL Draft and was the first defensive player selected.
He's started every game thus far for the Panthers and recorded two tackles Thursday prior to his departure. The injury to Horn came roughly two quarters after Carolina running back Christian McCaffrey was ruled out with a hamstring injury.