The Carolina Panthers are gearing up for the 2026 NFL season with high hopes, as they seek to build on their recent success under fourth-year quarterback Bryce Young. After winning the NFC South and ending a seven-year playoff drought, the Panthers are eager to take another significant step forward.
Last season, the Panthers managed to secure a playoff spot with an 8-9 record, a feat that many considered a surprise. They came close to pulling off an upset against the Los Angeles Rams in the playoffs, ultimately falling short with a 34-31 loss due to a late touchdown pass from league MVP Matthew Stafford. Despite the disappointing end, general manager Dan Morgan expressed optimism about the team's direction and the progress made during their rebuilding phase.
Much of the excitement surrounding the Panthers stems from the development of Bryce Young, the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. After struggling with a 6-22 record as a starter prior to last season, Young showed significant improvement, throwing for a career-high 3,011 yards and 23 touchdowns while finishing the season with an 8-8 record as a starter. Panthers head coach Dave Canales noted that Young appears more confident and comfortable heading into his third year in the same offensive system, demonstrating quicker decision-making and a more prominent leadership role.
As the Panthers prepare for the new season, offensive coordinator Brad Idzik will take over play-calling responsibilities, although the offensive scheme will largely remain unchanged. Young will have several key weapons at his disposal, including Tetairoa McMillan, who was named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year after an impressive season in which he recorded 70 receptions for 1,014 yards and seven touchdowns. Additionally, Jalen Coker's late-season emergence solidified his position as the team's No. 2 receiver.
In the backfield, Chuba Hubbard returns as the starting running back, and the Panthers are optimistic about the potential of 2024 second-round draft pick Jonathan Brooks, who is finally healthy after dealing with knee injuries for nearly two seasons. The team also bolstered its offense by signing veteran tight end Darren Waller, providing Young with an experienced target in the passing game.
On the defensive side, the Panthers made strategic additions by acquiring edge rusher Jaelan Phillips and inside linebacker Devin Lloyd in free agency. This comes after a season in which the defense improved significantly, moving from last in the league in 2024 to 16th overall last season. The cornerback duo of Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson is regarded as one of the best in the league, with Horn earning Pro Bowl honors and Jackson leading the NFL in pass breakups.
However, the Panthers face challenges as they prepare for the season. Both starting offensive tackles, Ickey Ekwonu and Taylor Moton, will miss the start of the season due to injuries. Ekwonu is recovering from a knee injury sustained in January's playoff game, while Moton is dealing with blood clots in his lungs. This situation has raised concerns about the depth and effectiveness of the offensive line, which is crucial for Young's continued development.
Training camp has also brought its share of setbacks, with the Panthers losing two promising young players to season-ending knee injuries. Edge rusher Nic Scourton and rookie wide receiver Chris Brazzell, a third-round draft pick, were both expected to contribute significantly this season. Scourton had shown promise with five sacks as a rookie, while Brazzell was anticipated to add speed and big-play capability to the offense.
As the Panthers look ahead, Jalen Coker stands out as a player to watch. After a strong finish to last season, Coker has solidified his role as a reliable target for Young, earning a three-year, $35 million contract extension. With a promising roster and a determined quarterback at the helm, the Panthers are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
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