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Opt-out backlash? Jaycee Horn, his family react to criticism from Gamecock faithful about ending his season

Keith Farner

By Keith Farner

Published:

South Carolina CB Jaycee Horn announced on Monday that he would opt out of the rest of the season and prepare for the NFL Draft. But the announcement also came with backlash.

Horn became a star this season. Through 7 games, he had recorded 16 tackles, 2 interceptions and 6 pass breakups. He and Israel Mukuamu formed one of the top cornerback tandems in the SEC, and Horn particularly shined against Auburn. In that game, Horn excelled against Seth Williams in a lot of one-on-one matchups, and recorded a pair of interceptions, the first two of his career, and deflected a pass that led to a third interception for the Gamecocks.

Horn left the Gamecocks with the most interceptions (2) and pass breakups (6) on the team this season.

ESPN NFL Draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. has rated Horn as the sixth-best draft-eligible cornerback.

After Horn announced his plans, his brother and other Gamecock faithful came to his defense when others were critical of his decision to not finish the season. His brother responded on Twitter to tell critics how he was unappreciated, and later, “I use to wonder why athletes never show love/return to their old school … now I see.”

Keith Farner

A former newspaper veteran, Keith Farner is a news manager for Saturday Down South.

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