The Carolina Panthers have made an early roster change following their season-opening loss, waiving second-year wide receiver and return specialist Jimmy Horn Jr. on Tuesday.
The move clears a spot for veteran linebacker Tyrel Dodson, whom Carolina promoted from its practice squad to the active 53-man roster. Dodson brings six seasons of NFL experience and has made 43 career starts.
Horn entered the 2026 season as Carolina’s primary kick and punt returner. During Sunday’s 59-37 loss to the Chicago Bears, he averaged 20.2 yards on five kickoff returns and 8.5 yards on two punt returns. He also played 14 offensive snaps and finished the game without a reception on his lone target.
A second-quarter punt became a key moment in the game. Jimmy horn jr attempted to field the ball after signaling for a fair catch but muffed the punt, allowing Chicago to recover. The Bears converted the turnover into a field goal.
Horn was selected by Carolina in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft out of Colorado. As a rookie, he recorded 11 receptions for 108 yards while also contributing as a returner.
The Panthers now have five wide receivers on their 53-man roster: Tetairoa McMillan, Jalen Coker, Xavier Legette, Brycen Tremayne and John Metchie III. Carolina’s updated depth chart lists Legette as the backup option for kick and punt returns.
For Horn, the roster move brings an abrupt end to his time on Carolina’s active roster just one game into his second NFL season. His next opportunity will depend on whether another team claims him or he becomes available to sign elsewhere.
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