Jimmy Horn Jr. Ready to Shine: Panthers Set for Rookie's NFL Debut
Panthers Prepare for Jimmy Horn Jr.'s NFL Debut: A New Playmaker on the Horizon
The Carolina Panthers are preparing for the debut of rookie receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. after an unexpected turn of events. With David Moore sidelined indefinitely due to an elbow injury, Horn is set to take his first steps on an NFL field this Sunday against the Miami Dolphins. While Horn’s debut was initially scheduled for later in the season, the Panthers’ coaching staff is excited to give him a chance sooner than expected, particularly after seeing his steady growth and development.
Horn, a former star at Colorado, has impressed Panthers coaches with his energy, work ethic, and adaptability. Head coach Dave Canales highlighted Horn's readiness, saying, "This is the reason he's here, and while we didn't expect this injury to open the door, opportunities come in different ways. I'm excited for Jimmy to get out there."
The rookie receiver has already earned praise from his teammates, including quarterback Bryce Young, who described Horn as a patient player who worked diligently behind the scenes. "He’s been working hard, giving 100 percent on the scout team, and now he gets his chance. I'm excited for him," Young said.
Despite his calm demeanor, Horn's teammates are confident in his abilities. "He’s fast, crafty, a good route runner... but he’s got that dawg in him," said fellow rookie Tetairoa McMillan. "He’s been waiting his turn, and now he gets to show what he can do."
Horn’s versatility will be a key asset. In college, he excelled not only as a receiver with 162 catches but also as a dynamic returner, averaging 21.1 yards per kickoff return and scoring a touchdown. His well-rounded skills make him a threat in multiple roles for the Panthers as they look to inject some fresh energy into their offense.
With Horn’s debut on the horizon, the Panthers are hopeful this could be the start of something special for their offense, as the rookie looks to make his mark in the NFL.
Saints' Running Game Surges Under Kellen Moore: A Playoff Push in the Works
Saints Find Their Offensive Identity Under Kellen Moore: The Return of the Run Game
When Kellen Moore was hired as the New Orleans Saints’ head coach back in February, many wondered how his offensive philosophy would transform the team. Just a quarter into the season, the answer is clear: the run game is the foundation of Moore’s strategy.
The Saints’ rushing offense, once a weak point, now ranks among the best in the league, sitting comfortably at 10th in the NFL. This marks the first time since 2020 that the Saints have had such success on the ground. Alvin Kamara, the veteran running back, leads the charge with 256 rushing yards and is on pace for a career-high season with over 1,000 yards.
The emergence of Kendre Miller has also been a key factor in the Saints' success. Moore has given Miller a fresh start, and the second-year player has seized the opportunity, rushing for 124 yards and a touchdown on just 28 carries. With his current trajectory, Miller is poised to shatter his career highs and become a reliable backup to Kamara.
Even quarterback Spencer Rattler has contributed to the ground game, adding 102 rushing yards on the season. This diverse rushing attack has not only revitalized the Saints' offense but has also set the stage for their playoff hopes, which seem far more promising under Moore than they did in previous seasons.
Looking ahead, the Saints face the New York Giants in Week 5, a team struggling with one of the worst rushing defenses in the league. With the Saints’ new emphasis on the run game, scoring should come easily against the Giants. This game also marks the first time this season that the Saints are favored to win, a testament to the impact Moore has had on the team.
The Saints' offensive identity under Kellen Moore is now clear: a diverse, dynamic, and powerful run game. With Kamara, Miller, and even Rattler stepping up, the Saints are poised to be a force to reckon with as the season progresses.
