What happened: Carolina gave the open spot to a linebacker addition. Horn broke loose on a preseason end around after arriving as a 2025 sixth-round pick out of Colorado.

Why it matters: Early regular-season churn leaves little margin for developmental depth on the back of the roster. Carolina opened September carrying five tight ends, squeezing depth receiver spots further.

What to watch: Horn's waiver outcome decides whether Carolina can retain him on the practice squad. The next punt-return assignment shows how the staff replaces him.