Panthers Eye 2025 Playoff Spot Amid Optimism

The Carolina Panthers are showing signs of improvement following a difficult 2024 NFL season, highlighted by a late-season surge from quarterback Bryce Young. Under new head coach Dave Canales and GM Dan Morgan, the team has upgraded its roster with first-round pick Tetairoa McMillan and added several defensive reinforcements through both the draft and free agency. Though the Panthers still have roster holes and their defense ranked among the league's worst in 2024, a rejuvenated Young and a weak NFC South offer a plausible path to the playoffs in 2025. NFL.com and other analysts consider Carolina a contender to end its playoff drought, but much hinges on the defense showing real progress. Fantasy football experts currently advise avoiding the Panthers' defense until consistent improvement is seen. Overall, cautious optimism surrounds Carolina's chances if young players and new additions deliver.