There is a lot riding on the 2026 campaign for the Carolina Panthers. And for some players, the aim is to ensure this season doesn't mark the end of their journey with the franchise.
They are looking to take the next step after winning the NFC South last season. Head coach Dave Canales is dealing with some injuries to key personnel, but there is enough talent across the board to potentially secure a winning record for the first time under David Tepper's ownership.
General manager Dan Morgan believes the Panthers are close. His moves this offseason reflect that, but he will now be thinking about the bigger picture. And the performances of his players will have significant ramifications, for better or worse.
With this in mind, here are 10 Panthers players who could be facing their final stand in 2026.
Carolina Panthers players who could be embarking on their final season with the club
Patrick Jones II, OLB
The Panthers strengthened their edge-rushing room with the big-money signing of Jaelan Phillips. But with 2025 second-round pick Nic Scourton out for the season with a torn ACL, veteran Patrick Jones II will once again be counted upon heavily.
Jones performed well last season before a back injury that required surgery ruled him out for the remainder of 2025. He's had a full offseason to get back up to speed, and the added incentive of a contract year will only motivate him further.
Claudin Cherelus, LB
The Panthers kept Claudin Cherelus over Trevin Wallace, but neither of them managed to secure the LB2 spot. Carolina signed Bobby Okereke to fill the void, adding another experienced presence to the ranks alongside Devin Lloyd at an important time.
Cherelus' value on special teams gave him a reprieve. But if he wants another deal from the Panthers, he'll have to perform well in this key discipline to justify another financial commitment from the club.
Brycen Tremayne, WR
Much like the situation with Cherelus, the Panthers kept wide receiver Brycen Tremayne on the 53-man roster due to his ability on special teams. There is a chance he could feature on the offensive rotation, but Carolina is well-equipped with enough pass-catchers to keep him on the fringes.
This is Tremayne's second season in Carolina. Keeping him around should be a straightforward exercise as an exclusive-rights free agent, but he'll have to earn it just like everyone else.
Mike Jackson Sr., CB
The Panthers' trade for Mike Jackson Sr. is among Morgan's shrewdest moves since taking charge of the front office. The cornerback's 2025 campaign was his best yet, performing at a borderline lockdown level while forming an outstanding boundary tandem with Jaycee Horn.
Jackson wants to build on this positive season, and a lot of money is on the line. He's in a contract year, so another strong campaign might price him out of an extension in Carolina when push comes to shove.
Nick Scott, S
The Panthers have always valued Nick Scott more than most fans do. Defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero fully trusts the veteran safety, but his relationship with the club is always a year-to-year arrangement.
Scott will likely start alongside Tre'von Moehrig on the defensive back end to start the season. The Panthers are also expecting big things from the young safety duo of Lathan Ransom and Zakee Wheatley. If their influence grows, Carolina could deem the Penn State product surplus to requirements when the 2026 campaign concludes.
Tommy Tremble, TE
Tommy Tremble remains something of an enigma, which is strange considering this will be Year 6 of his professional career. The tight end is an outstanding blocker, both in-line and at the second level, but his inconsistency in the passing game remains a frustration.
Tremble is looking to secure a third contract from the Panthers this season. He should get plenty of chances to impress, given the concerns about others in the unit. But if he cannot come up with the goods, Morgan might decide to part ways when his deal expires.
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