The Panthers are charging into the 2026 offseason with a sense of purpose and a clear offensive strategy. After finishing 8-9 in 2025, they still managed to clinch the NFC South and gave the Rams a run for their money in a nail-biting 34-31 Wild Card loss.
Now, with Dave Canales focusing on Bryce Young's growth, they've brought in Darrell Bevell as associate head coach and offensive specialist. Bevell's extensive experience in quarterback development and game planning is set to be a game-changer.
But here’s where the conversation gets serious: the salary cap. Carolina's got a solid core, but with that comes some hefty price tags.
In 2026, several key players will see their cap hits soar past the $20 million mark. This clustering of expenses means tough decisions are on the horizon. If the Panthers want to continue building around Young, they’ll need to add impactful skill players while also making room for others to find new homes.
Here are four strategic moves Carolina should consider to free up cap space in the 2026 NFL offseason:
First up, Taylor Moton. This right tackle is a cornerstone for the offense, especially vital for a quarterback like Young, who thrives on timing and rhythm.
With a cap hit just over $21 million, it's a significant chunk for a team juggling multiple big contracts. The dilemma is whether to carry such a high cap hit for a tackle while aiming to bolster the receiving corps and maintain line depth.
Moton is trusted by coaches, which is invaluable. The smart play might be a restructure or extension, depending on his projected value over the next couple of years.
A restructure offers immediate cap relief by converting salary into bonuses, but it also pushes financial commitments forward. This move keeps the depth chart intact while aligning financials with coaching strategies.
Next, we have the interior offensive line. For Young to continue his upward trajectory, this can't become a revolving door.
Hunt’s cap hit of $24.3 million is hefty for a guard, even a top-tier one. Restructuring his contract could free up significant space while preserving the physical, stable identity of the offense.
This move benefits both the team and the player, providing security and flexibility.
On the defensive side, Brown’s $24.5 million cap hit is substantial, but his presence is crucial for maintaining a strong front. A restructure here is essential to lower the cap hit while keeping the defense balanced and effective. Letting Brown go would be a misstep; his ability to disrupt plays is vital for the team’s success.
Finally, the cornerback position is critical. Horn’s cap hit of $24.08 million is premium money, justified only if he delivers consistent, top-tier performance.
If the Panthers see Horn as a long-term asset, an extension could create cap space while retaining a key coverage player. It’s not about offloading talent but strategically planning the cap to maintain flexibility and strength across the roster.
The Panthers’ cap strategy should reflect their progress in 2025. To ensure 2026 is another playoff year, they need to manage the cap proactively, smoothing out spikes and protecting their young quarterback’s development with solid protection and weapons. Addressing these financial challenges early will be crucial to playing meaningful football deep into the season.
Bryce Young’s insights after 2025 highlight the razor-thin margins in the NFL. For Carolina, translating that understanding into decisive roster moves is key. By tackling the cap head-on, the Panthers can set the stage for a stronger 2026.