Jimmy Horn Jr: Waived by Panthers, Draft, 40 Time, Father and Height

Jimmy Horn Jr. is an NFL wide receiver who entered the league after an impressive college career at Colorado. The speedy receiver became a sixth-round pick of the Carolina Panthers in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, his time with Carolina took an unexpected turn in September 2026 when the Panthers waived him following their Week 1 loss to the Chicago Bears.

Here is everything to know about Jimmy Horn Jr., including why the Panthers waived him, his NFL Draft selection, 40-yard dash time, father, height and college background.

Why Was Jimmy Horn Jr. Waived by the Panthers?

The Carolina Panthers waived Jimmy Horn Jr. on September 15, 2026, one day after their season-opening loss to the Chicago Bears. The Panthers announced the move while adding linebacker Tyrel Dodson to their active roster.

Horn had served as Carolina’s primary returner in the Week 1 matchup. During the game, he muffed a punt, allowing Chicago to recover the ball. The Bears subsequently converted the turnover into points.

The Panthers then decided to make a roster change, with Horn being waived to create room for Dodson. Carolina’s Week 2 depth chart lists John Metchie III as the team’s primary punt returner following Horn’s departure.

Being waived does not necessarily mean Horn’s NFL career is over. He must go through the league’s waiver process, after which another team could potentially claim him.

NFL Draft

Jimmy Horn Jr. was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

Carolina selected him with the No. 208 overall pick. He became an NFL prospect after transferring from South Florida to Colorado and establishing himself as a dynamic offensive weapon and return specialist.

Horn’s speed was one of the major attractions surrounding his draft profile. His ability to contribute as a receiver and returner gave him multiple potential roles at the professional level.

40 Time

Jimmy Horn Jr.’s official NFL Scouting Combine 40-yard dash time was 4.46 seconds.

He recorded the time at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine. Reports also noted that Horn subsequently ran faster at his Colorado Pro Day, with reported times ranging from 4.38 to 4.40 seconds, depending on the timing source.

His speed has been one of the defining parts of his football profile. The Panthers themselves highlighted his acceleration and explosiveness during his first offseason with the team.

How Tall Is Jimmy Horn Jr.?

Jimmy Horn Jr. is listed at 5 feet 8 inches tall.

The Carolina Panthers list him at 5-foot-8, while NFL.com also lists his height as 5-foot-8. NFL.com lists his weight at 174 pounds, although the Panthers’ roster page has listed him at 180 pounds.

His relatively small stature is balanced by his acceleration, quickness and ability to create separation.

Who Is Jimmy Horn Jr.’s Father?

Jimmy Horn Jr.’s father is Jimmy Horn Sr.

Horn Jr. was born on September 12, 2002, in Sanford, Florida, to Jimmy Horn Sr. and Kendra Lewis. His family background has been part of his story as he progressed from Florida football to the NFL.

His football journey eventually took him to South Florida before he transferred to Colorado, where he played for Deion Sanders.

College Career

Horn began his college career at the University of South Florida. After two seasons with the Bulls, he entered the transfer portal and joined the Colorado Buffaloes.

At Colorado, Horn became an important part of the offense and special teams. His speed made him a threat with the ball in his hands, while his return ability increased his value to NFL scouts.

His performance at Colorado helped him earn an invitation to the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine and ultimately led to his selection by Carolina.

NFL Career

Horn entered his rookie season with the Panthers as a versatile player capable of contributing on offense and special teams.

In 2025, he appeared in 13 games, recording 11 receptions for 108 yards and eight rushing attempts for 68 yards, according to reporting on his Panthers tenure.

His second NFL season began with him handling return duties. However, after the Week 1 matchup against Chicago, Carolina waived him.

What Happens to Jimmy Horn Jr. After Being Waived?

After being waived, Horn enters the NFL waiver process. If another team claims him, he can join that organization’s roster. If he clears waivers, he could become a free agent and potentially choose his next opportunity.

His combination of speed, receiving ability and return experience could remain useful to teams looking for depth at wide receiver or special teams.

Quick Facts

Final Thoughts

Jimmy Horn Jr.’s NFL journey has changed quickly. The Panthers selected him No. 208 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft after he showcased his speed and versatility at Colorado. His 4.46-second Combine 40 time, along with faster reported Pro Day times, demonstrated the athletic ability that made him an intriguing prospect.

Carolina waived Horn on September 15, 2026, following a Week 1 game in which he muffed a punt against the Chicago Bears. His next NFL opportunity will depend on the waiver process and any interest from other teams.

FAQs

Why did the Panthers waive Jimmy Horn Jr.?
The Panthers waived Horn after their Week 1 loss to the Chicago Bears. He had muffed a punt during the game, and Carolina subsequently made a roster move to add linebacker Tyrel Dodson.

What round was Jimmy Horn Jr. drafted?
He was drafted in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

What pick was Jimmy Horn Jr.?
The Carolina Panthers selected Horn with the No. 208 overall pick.

What is Jimmy Horn Jr.’s 40 time?
His 2025 NFL Combine 40-yard dash time was 4.46 seconds.

How tall is Jimmy Horn Jr.?
He is listed at 5-foot-8.

Who is Jimmy Horn Jr.’s father?
His father is Jimmy Horn Sr.

Where did Jimmy Horn Jr. go to college?
He played at South Florida before transferring to Colorado.