Chicago Bears host Carolina Panthers in 2026 NFL season opener

The Chicago Bears open the 2026 NFL season at home against the defending NFC South champion Carolina Panthers. Chicago returns quarterback Caleb Williams and a veteran rushing attack featuring D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai. Defensive concerns persist for the Bears, who enter the matchup with a reorganized secondary and questions regarding the left tackle position. Carolina counters with an upgraded pass rush and offensive threats including receiver Tetairoa McMillan, who won Offensive Rookie of the Year honors last season. The game pits Chicago's established offensive core against a Carolina defense featuring new additions Jaelen Phillips and Devin Lloyd. Both teams enter the Week 1 contest looking to establish momentum to start the new campaign.

• 1:30 PMYahoo Sports — Why the Bears will or won't beat Panthers in Week 1