Carolina enters camp with the goal of defending the NFC South championship after an 8-9 season. The continued development of Bryce Young under Dave Canales, offensive coordinator Brad Idzik taking on roles in the lineup, the additions of cornerback Jaelan Phillips and linebacker Devin Lloyd on defense, Tetairoa McMillan’s ascension after an award-winning rookie season, and how the Pan’s storied offensive line is shaking things up.
Meanwhile, in Arizona, Mike LaFleur ushers in a new era and a new offense. Will Jacoby Brissett tell as he looks for a new deal that puts him in line with other starters, or will the Cards open up competition with Gardner Minshew and Carson Beck? How big of a role will freshman Jeremiah Love play in a tight backfield? Can Marvin Harrison Jr finally break out in LaFleur’s offense? What does the defense look like with Nick Rallis around and can they finally stay healthy — especially 2025 first baseman Walter Nolen? How much restoration do we have in the wilderness?
The Cards and Panthers begin the vets’ reporting session, but they’re not the only ones getting some real work done this week. The reigning Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots open camp on Friday. The teams will meet in a Super Bowl playoff to start the regular season on September 9.