Jaycee Horn update fuels quiet optimism as Panthers enter critical stretch

Carolina Panthers cornerback Jaycee Horn | Icon Sportswire/GettyImagesThe Carolina Panthers are about to embark on their biggest four-game stretch in years. Three wins will probably get them to an NFC South title and into the playoffs. It won't be easy, but this upstart postseason hopeful is healthier than ever.

Aside from Pro Bowl right guard Robert Hunt, all the major players were back at practice as preparations for Week 15 at the New Orleans Saints gathered pace. And there was one encouraging sign above all else that left fans enthused about the team's chances.

The fact that Carolina beat the Los Angeles Rams without stud cornerback Jaycee Horn showed how far this squad has come in a…