The Carolina Panthers took a big step forward in 2025 by winning the NFC South and making the playoffs for the first time since 2017.

Carolina’s quick exit from the playoffs, however, shows there’s still plenty of work to be done before the franchise is a true Super Bowl contender.

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ESPN says it’s time for the Carolina Panthers to build

Shortly after the Seattle Seahawks‘ win over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX on Sunday, ESPN revealed their early 2026 NFL power rankings.

ESPN, which has the Panthers at No. 22 in its power rankings, said it’s “time to build” this offseason in Carolina.

“With no coaching search for the second straight offseason, the Panthers can now focus on adding much-needed depth instead of rebuilding,” noted ESPN’s David Newton. “General manager Dan Morgan said he already has over 600 names on his draft board, and Carolina is no longer hindered in the draft by its trade up to take quarterback Bryce Young in 2023. Morgan also strongly believes ability and hope will attract top free agents. In 2025, the Panthers won their first NFC South title since 2015 and made their first playoff appearance since 2017.”

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It’s been a tough road for the Panthers over the last half decade. But it appears that the franchise is finally turning a corner under owner David Tepper (as a result, Tepper is starting to warm up to the media again).

But the Panthers need to get better rushing the passer and they could use another playmaker at wide receiver. They also need to address the linebacker position and probably tight end.

This is a huge offseason for general manager Dan Morgan. Front office lifespans can be short in the NFL. And this may be Morgan’s best chance to show he can turn the Panthers into a contender.

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Related: ‘The time to lock him down is now’ – ESPN makes strong statement about under-the-radar Carolina Panthers player

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This story was originally published by A to Z Sports on Feb 10, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add A to Z Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.