Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales has faced scrutiny for several lineup decisions this season. On defense, Nick Scott and Trevin Wallace have continued to start despite repeated errors, while on offense, veteran David Moore has received playing time over younger, more athletic wide receivers.
Perhaps the most puzzling decision has been the complete absence of rookie wide receiver and return specialist Jimmy Horn Jr. from the active roster. After generating considerable hype during training camp, Horn has been a healthy inactive for the first three games of the season.
However, a development this week suggests a change may be imminent. According to a report from The Athletic, Horn participated in Wednesday’s practice with the primary offensive and special teams units for the first time, after previously being limited to the scout team.
The speedy sixth-round pick from Colorado confirmed the shift in his role. “I got better today,” Horn said. “I got reps. I got better — mental and physical.”
While it remains unlikely that Horn will immediately command a significant share of offensive snaps, his clearest path to contributing is on special teams. This is an area where the Panthers have struggled, ranking 30th in the league in both average punt and kick returns through three weeks. The recent change in his practice duties could signal that Horn is in line to make his debut this week against the New England Patriots.
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