Veteran Andy Dalton, rookie Jimmy Horn gaining rhythm at Panthers training camp

The Carolina Panthers are already seeing a connection between veteran quarterback Andy Dalton and rookie wide receiver Jimmy Horn at training camp

Carolina Panthers quarterback Andy Dalton throws during practice at training camp. | Scott Kinser-Imagn Images

The expectation around the Carolina Panthers going into the 2025 season is that quarterback Bryce Young will be leading the offense under center.

But that doesn't mean that veteran quarterback Andy Dalton shouldn't be prepared to hear his name called. Dalton started five games for the Panthers last season as Young struggled in just his second season.

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There is no quarterback competition in training camp this year, but it can't hurt for Dalton to find a rhythm with his receivers, and he is already doing that with 2025 sixth-round pick Jimmy Horn.

Jimmy Horn Jr. scores in 7s work. Pass from Andy Dalton. Gets both toes down in corner of the end zone, per the official. Jaycee Horn, who watched from the sideline, vehemently disagrees the rookie WR got both feet down.

Also, Brycen Tremayne just scored his 3rd TD of the day.

— Alex Zietlow (@alexzietlow05) August 1, 2025

In Friday's practice, Dalton made an outstanding connection with Horn on a play during seven-on-seven. According to Alex Zietlow, it was a toe-tapping score in the corner of the endzone.

Jimmy Horn with another 11v11 TD catch from Dalton.

Dalton slicing the defense up in these red zone drills today.

— Carolina Blitz (@KeepBlitzin) August 1, 2025

The pair continued to find a connection throughout practice, as Horn even caught a touchdown reception in a drill with all 11 players on the field.

Horn's college journey started at South Florida, where he spent two seasons before transferring to Colorado for his final two seasons of his collegiate career.

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Now, Horn is showcasing that he may be more than just a sixth-round talent. If his confidence continues to grow, the rookie receiver could see himself make a larger impact when the preseason slate of games begins. Horn is one to keep an eye on during camp.

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