Why did Panthers waive Jimmy Horn Jr? Carolina's updated depth chart reveals new returner

Jimmy Horn’s role suffered a setback after he muffed a second-quarter punt against the Bears, with the mistake eventually leading to a Chicago field goal.

The Carolina Panthers have made a roster move involving one of their young players just a day after a costly mistake in their season opener.

Carolina waived wide receiver and return specialist Jimmy Horn Jr, the team announced Tuesday.

The Panthers selected Horn in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, and he opened the season as the team's primary returner on both kickoffs and punts.

Horn's role took a hit during Sunday's loss to the Chicago Bears when he muffed a punt in the second quarter. The mistake eventually resulted in a field goal for Chicago.

Why did Panthers waive Jimmy Horn?

Horn's departure creates space for linebacker Tyrel Dodson, a former Miami Dolphins starter who was promoted from Carolina's practice squad after another team attempted to sign him, according to ESPN.

Dodson brings considerable NFL experience to the Panthers. The 28-year-old has made 43 career starts and appeared in 92 games during stints with the Buffalo Bills, Dolphins and Seattle Seahawks.

He also has a previous connection to Carolina's front office. The Bills signed Dodson as an undrafted rookie out of Texas A&M while Panthers general manager Dan Morgan was part of Buffalo's staff.