The Carolina Panthers may have found another hidden gem in wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr., and the rookie has his sights set on following a legendary path. Drafted in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Horn draws inspiration from franchise icon Steve Smith Sr., who began his career in similar fashion nearly a quarter century ago.
Jimmy Horn Jr. aiming to make an early impact
Horn recently sat down with former Panther Thomas Davis on the team's official YouTube channel to share his mindset heading into his rookie season. Like Smith in 2001, Horn enters the league with modest expectations on offense but hopes to prove his value on special teams.
My rookie year, I just want to go out there and impact any way I can, Horn said. That could be from special teams, offense, taking five-yard catches to a 90-yard touchdown. I'm just trying to do anything I can do to help the team win. And then I feel like if I play that way, whatever accolades I'm looking for, it'll fall on to me.
Smith caught just 10 passes as a rookie but earned All-Pro honors for his electric kick return skills. Horn is prepared to take a similar route, focusing on versatility and playmaking in all phases of the game.
Embracing the physical edge
One aspect of Smith's game that Horn admires most is his tenacity and toughness. Known for his fierce competitiveness and fearless playing style, Smith carved out a Hall of Fame-worthy career, traits Horn believes he shares.
The main thing I took from his game was like the physicality, Horn explained. He played tough and like he really on the field, he wasn't going for nothing. So like that's just something natural as a player that you got to have too. And I see that in me a lot too though. I ain't really going for nothing on the field.
Special teams: A proven path
Horn is currently projected to be the Panthers' fourth or fifth wide receiver, but his biggest contributions early on may come as a punt and kickoff returner. It’s the same role that launched Smith's iconic career and could provide Horn with the platform to showcase his speed, vision, and determination.
Whether through electrifying returns or key offensive snaps, Jimmy Horn Jr. is ready to write his own story in Carolina, one inspired by a legend, but powered by his own grit.