Kwaghterna GarshaguIn a bold move to solidify the future of the Carolina Panthers, general manager Dan Morgan has secured long-term commitments from the team’s top three players, signaling that the foundation for sustained success is beginning to take shape. In his post-regular season press conference on Monday, Morgan confirmed the Panthers’ commitment to cornerback Jaycee Horn, left tackle Ikem Ekwonu, and quarterback Bryce Young as key building blocks for the franchise’s future.
Jaycee Horn: The Cornerstone of Carolina’s Defense
One of the most pressing questions for the Panthers heading into the offseason was the future of cornerback Jaycee Horn, who was set to enter the 2025 season on his fifth-year option. Morgan wasted no time addressing the situation, confirming that Horn is a central figure in the defense’s future.
“Jaycee is obviously the focal point of the defense, somebody that we’re gonna want here long term and we’re gonna work on getting him a long-term deal,” Morgan stated.
Horn, the eighth overall pick in the 2021 draft, had a rocky start to his career due to injuries, missing 29 of a possible 51 games in his first three seasons. However, he silenced critics in 2024 with a Pro Bowl selection, marking a breakout year. Despite his limited appearances earlier in his career, Horn has proven himself to be one of the NFL’s premier cornerbacks when healthy, and the Panthers are eager to lock him up for the long haul.
Ikem Ekwonu: Anchoring the Offensive Line
Morgan also discussed the future of left tackle Ikem Ekwonu, Carolina’s first-round pick in the 2022 draft. Ekwonu had a much-improved 2024 season after a sophomore slump, earning a 66.2 pass-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus and a career-high 80.5 in run-blocking. His continued development has been crucial in protecting Bryce Young and establishing a stronger offensive line.
“We think a lot of Ickey. I think he’s gotten better every single year. I think he made strides this season. I think [offensive line coach] Joe Gilbert and his staff have done a really good job with the O-line in general. So, yeah, I see Ickey as a piece that we want around here for a long time,” Morgan said.
The Panthers are expected to exercise Ekwonu’s fifth-year option in the spring, and negotiations on a potential long-term extension could follow shortly after.
Bryce Young: The Future of Carolina’s Offense
The third cornerstone of the Panthers’ future is none other than quarterback Bryce Young. After an encouraging rookie season, the No. 1 overall pick from the 2023 NFL Draft is expected to be the centerpiece of the franchise’s offensive rebuild. While no specific contract talks were revealed, Morgan’s commitment to strengthening the team’s long-term core is clear. With Horn, Ekwonu, and Young set to lead the way, Carolina is focused on building around these three key players as they look to turn the page toward a new era of competitiveness.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for the Panthers
With the foundation now set, the Panthers’ front office is expected to turn its attention to further roster improvement, including rebuilding the defense and adding more weapons for Young on offense. The retention of these key players also sends a strong message to the rest of the league that the Panthers are serious about competing for years to come.
As the offseason progresses, the Panthers will look to continue building around their core, ensuring that their young stars have the necessary support to elevate the team to playoff contention and beyond.
The building blocks are in place. The future is looking brighter than ever for the Carolina Panthers.
Musa
