It was a special moment when NFL prospects Shedeur Sanders and Shilo Sanders played under the guidance of their father, Deion Sanders. But despite their success, Deion has made it clear that his “favorite son” is actually wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr.
While Coach Prime and Horn Jr. aren’t related, they share a unique bond. Let’s explore their relationship.
Everything About Jimmy Horn Jr. and His Relationship With Deion Sanders
Horn Jr. grew up in Sanford, Fla., raised by his father, Jimmy Horn Sr., who was a single parent; Horn Sr. played football at Seminole High School and Bethune-Cookman University but never made it to the NFL. Instead, he worked as a truck driver and barber.
However, Horn Sr. has been incarcerated since 2021 on drug-related charges. In his absence, Sanders has stepped in as a fatherly figure for Horn Jr. in Colorado.
The younger Horn followed in his father’s footsteps by attending Seminole High School, where he excelled as a receiver and returner. He was also a standout student, graduating with honors and a 3.8 GPA.
After receiving multiple scholarship offers, he played his first two collegiate seasons at USF, where he recorded 67 receptions for 959 yards and four touchdowns, along with a kickoff return TD. Following his sophomore season, he transferred to Colorado, where he quickly became one of Coach Prime’s favorite players.
In his first year with the Buffaloes, Horn caught 58 passes for 567 yards and six touchdowns. Sanders praised him as a warrior and a game-changer.
During the 2024 season, Horn recorded 37 receptions for 441 yards and one touchdown through 11 games. He was later invited to the NFL Scouting Combine alongside Shedeur Sanders and received a special message of support from Deion when a text from the coach appeared on the big screen reading, “Jimmy #1.”
Sanders has mentored Horn on and off the field, helping him develop his skills and confidence.
During Colorado’s Senior Day, Horn asked Sanders to walk him onto the field since his father couldn’t be there. Coach Prime agreed, and they visited Horn’s father the next day.
After the game, Sanders reflected on the emotional moment. “Jimmy is like my kid; I love him that much,” Sanders told reporters.
“We’ve talked about some personal things throughout his couple seasons here. I want to go with him on Sunday to see his father as well. He just turned around and asked me [to walk out with him], so that’s how that transpired. I said, ‘Shoot, you know you don’t have to ask me twice. I got you. I got you.’ It’s unbelievable, man. I love him that much.”
With Horn’s father serving time in prison, it’s likely been an emotional journey for the young receiver; however, Sanders has stepped in as a strong support system for Horn.
Which NFL Team Could Draft Horn?
Horn is currently projected to be selected on Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft, though strong performances in pre-draft evaluations could help boost his stock.
Among the teams that could be interested in the explosive receiver, fans have speculated about the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Dallas Cowboys as potential landing spots.
However, rebuilding teams or those with young quarterbacks — such as the Chicago Bears and Houston Texans — may also see value in his skill set.
In PFSN’s latest seven-round 2025 NFL Mock Draft, Horn is projected to be picked 177th overall by the Bills. Regardless of where he lands, he can take pride in the trust Sanders has in him. In the NFL, relationships like these can make all the difference in building a successful career.
