Jaycee Horn is set to become the highest-paid defensive back in NFL history after agreeing to a four-year extension with the Carolina Panthers through the 2029 season, the team announced Monday.
The deal, negotiated by Trevon Smith and David Mulugheta, is worth $100 million and includes $70 million guaranteed, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The contract averages $25 million per season and could reach a maximum of $108 million with incentives, according to sources.
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A cornerstone for Carolina’s defense
Horn, the No. 8 overall pick in the 2021 draft, earned his first Pro Bowl selection last season after recording a career-high 68 tackles, two sacks, and one interception for the Panthers.
Carolina had previously exercised the fifth-year option on Horn’s rookie contract but made it clear that securing him with a long-term deal was a priority in solidifying their defense.
“Jaycee is obviously the focal point of our defense, someone we want here long-term,” Panthers general manager Dan Morgan said at the NFL Combine.
Staying healthy was key for Horn
Horn emphasized last season that his main goal was to stay healthy after injuries limited him to just 22 of 51 games in his first three years. In 2024, he played 98% of defensive snaps across 15 games. He later stated that being on the field consistently helped him slow the game down and improve his performance.
“I’m excited to come back next year and build on this,” Horn said.
Head coach Dave Canales also highlighted Horn’s growth, not just on the field but also as a leader in the locker room.
“I saw a guy who was completely focused on helping the team, making sure he was available, and taking care of his body,” Canales said. “I didn’t know Jaycee before [2024], but what I saw was pure professionalism.
“He provided something so solid and stable for others to follow: ‘This is what excellence looks like.'”
