Panthers lose two key defensive backs, including star rookie to injury in Texans game

What was once considered one of their deepest positions is suddenly becoming thinner for the Panthers.

Safety Juston Burris and rookie cornerback Jaycee Horn both suffered injuries early in the second half of their game against the Texans.

Horn’s injury is reportedly a broken foot, NFL Network reported. It happened on a non-contact play as he back-pedaled in pass coverage before falling to the ground and had to be helped off the field by two trainers; he did not put any pressure on his right foot as he was carried to the sideline.

The Panthers drafted Horn No. 8 overall in the 2021 NFL draft out of South Carolina; he was the first defensive player taken. Cornerback A.J. Bouye was eligible to play tonight, but he was not activated for the game.

The Panthers elevated cornerback Rashaan Melvin from the practice squad in Bouye’s place.

This story was originally published September 23, 2021 at 10:15 PM with the headline "Panthers lose two key defensive backs, including star rookie to injury in Texans game."

Jonathan M. Alexander

The Charlotte Observer

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Jonathan M. Alexander is a native of Charlotte. He began covering the Carolina Panthers for the Observer in July 2020 after working at the N&O for seven years, where he covered a variety of beats, including UNC basketball and football, Duke basketball, recruiting, K-12 schools, public safety and town government. Support my work with a digital subscription