Carolina Panthers cornerback Jaycee Horn may have just liked to be a Pro Bowler by title only.
The star defender chatted with reporters from his locker following Thursday's practice. He was asked about the NFL's discontinuation of their annual Pro Bowl Games, and didn't hold back on his thoughts . . .
Jaycee Horn said he’ll miss the family aspect of the Pro Bowl. But correctly notes: “The game was trash.” pic.twitter.com/vJygg38tca
— Joe Person (@josephperson) September 10, 2026
Two weeks ago, the league announced that they'll no longer hold a competitive event to highlight their all-stars. Instead, beginning with the 2026 campaign, 88 players will be honored simply by being named Pro Bowlers.
NFL executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent commented on the change in a statement
upon the announcement.
"This direction came directly from our continued conversations with players and what they value most about the Pro Bowl," Vincent said. "Being selected by your peers, coaches and fans as one of the very best at your position carries tremendous meaning. We heard clearly that the distinction matters, and our focus is on making the recognition that comes with it worthy of what these players accomplished on the field."
The NFL had tried to spice up the event in recent years, holding various skill competitions in the lead-up to a flag football game. But despite some, um, interesting efforts, the Pro Bowl Games failed to stick on.
Horn is fresh off his second consecutive Pro Bowl nod in 2025, where he amassed a career-high five interceptions. He may now be even more excited if he lands a third in 2026.
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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Panthers star puts a nail in the coffin of recently-axed Pro Bowl game
