Expectations around the Carolina Panthers are soaring. Making the playoffs by winning the NFC South and some big offseason splashes have many around the league projecting another profitable campaign from head coach Dave Canales' squad, which has been a long time coming for this long-suffering fan base.
However, that is not an opinion shared by everybody.
Canales and general manager Dan Morgan know they are on the cusp of something special. It will be more difficult next season, but there is far more balance across the roster. With a strong draft, the Panthers could become a sneaky playoff challenger if everything comes together.
Carolina Panthers projected for another losing campaign despite impressive offseason
Even so, Lou Scataglia of NFL Spin Zone held a different opinion. The writer highlighted Carolina's schedule as a reason why the team's raised bar may not be met, predicting another losing season for the club in 2026.
"It's hard to imagine that the Carolina Panthers can win the NFC South again in 2026 with another 8-9 record. Furthermore, the Panthers have seven games against teams that made the playoffs, including a matchup against the Seattle Seahawks.
"Carolina, of note, also plays Denver, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Green Bay, and Detroit. Not only that, but quarterback Bryce Young appears to be a functional passer, at best. It should be another losing season for the Panthers in 2026."
It's a fair claim. The Panthers aren't the only team that got better this offseason. Taking on some of the league's heavyweights could go either way, though it's also worth remembering that Carolina generally played up to its competition last season.
Hopes are high, and fans are dreaming big. But this remains a precarious situation that could legitimately go either way.
The Panthers officially opened their window by signing edge rusher Jaelan Phillips and linebacker Devin Lloyd. Their trenches look secure on both sides of the football. Ejiro Evero's defense should be more formidable, but this all hinges on whether quarterback Bryce Young can maintain his upward trajectory.
Carolina has complete faith in Young. Morgan may play the waiting game on a lucrative long-term extension, but the belief is unwavering. The former Alabama standout has a lot of pressure on his shoulders. At the same time, everyone in the building is convinced he can take this team where it wants to go.
Of course, the Panthers will need a little bit of good luck along the way. But it would be a big surprise if they didn't build on their newly acquired momentum.
Just where that'll take them is anyone's guess.