Carolina Panthers prepare to face Chicago Bears in regular season opener
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 10:40 PM
Last updated Sep 10, 2026
The Carolina Panthers open their 2026 NFL campaign with a home game against the Chicago Bears at Bank of America Stadium. Offensive success depends on the protection of Bryce Young, as rookie tackle Monroe Freeling prepares for his first regular-season appearance. Defensively, the Panthers aim to generate more pressure on Chicago quarterback Caleb Williams after recording a league-low number of pressures last season. The defensive scheme will feature new acquisitions Jaelan Phillips and Devin Lloyd, who look to solidify the unit against a Bears offense potentially missing wide receiver Rome Odunze due to injury. Additionally, the Panthers plan to incorporate the speed of Jimmy Horn Jr. within the return game and as an offensive weapon in space. These factors will determine if the team can begin the season with a win.
- •Monroe Freeling makes his regular-season debut at tackle for the Panthers.
- •The Carolina defense seeks to improve upon a league-low 203 pressures from last season.
- •Chicago wide receiver Rome Odunze is listed as day-to-day with a leg injury.
- •Jaelan Phillips and Devin Lloyd join the Panthers to boost pass-rushing efforts.
- •Jimmy Horn Jr. provides additional depth as a receiver and primary return specialist.
- 10:40 PMYahoo Sports — How Can the Panthers Pull Off the Week One Upset?
"The NFL is finally back. After a summer that felt like forever, Week One has finally arrived, bringing with it the answers to months of speculation, questions, and concerns. The Carolina Panthers have a daunting task in front of them to kick off their 2026 campaign, opening the season at home against the Chicago Bears. […] The post How Can the Panthers Pull Off the Week One Upset? appeared first on The Lead.
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