The Carolina Panthers fell in love with Jaycee Horn, in part, for his tenacious attitude and unwavering confidence. Now, we can just say he’s definitely got a little of that “Mamba Mentality.”
On Saturday night, Horn seemingly made a choice on his uniform number, a decision he apparently did not take lightly. And, after about a week’s worth of thought, 2021’s eighth overall pick has called game on No. 8, in honor of the late, great Kobe Bryant.
New beginnings. #8Ball #RIPKobe pic.twitter.com/KfpI3I3UdN
— Jaycee Horn (@jayceehorn_10) May 8, 2021
With the NFL’s new expansion of jersey numbers, Horn was able to choose from wider range of options than cornerbacks would’ve previously had. Defensive backs, in particular, can now claim any available digit from No. 1 to No. 49.
The single-digit selection of No. 8, the number Bryant wore in the first half of his NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers from 1997 to 2006, will certainly be quite a different look in the secondary come game day. Horn also appeared to have considered No. 21 and No. 24, Bryant’s second number he donned from 2007 to 2016, in the process.
In the end, we can say he certainly nailed it. His No. 8 may not only signify his exact draft position, but also a true fandom to one of the most influential and impactful athletes in history.
The world just feel like it’s missing a big piece ever since Kobe left. Long Live the Greatest! 🐍❤️ pic.twitter.com/6AgSjKKP7s
— Jaycee Horn (@jayceehorn_10) January 27, 2021
