https://youtu.be/AEh-WAYcXWI
The Carolina Panthers won the NFC South, returned to the playoffs and nearly knocked off the Los Angeles Rams. Naturally, the betting market responded by treating them like they had spent the offseason eating glue.
Comedian and lifelong Panthers fan Ryan O’Flanagan joined The Stephie Smalls Show to explain why Carolina could be one of the NFL’s biggest surprises in 2026. Stephie went one step further and officially named the Panthers her “Baby Boys of 2026,” which is either a prestigious football honor or the beginning of a very expensive emotional mistake.
The optimism starts with Bryce Young. His 2025 season was inconsistent, but he showed legitimate franchise-quarterback potential down the stretch. Carolina has also surrounded him with a promising collection of weapons, including Tetairoa McMillan, Jalen Coker and Jonathan Brooks.
McMillan topped 1,000 receiving yards as a rookie and could take another major step in Year 2. Coker finally has a clear opportunity to become Carolina’s second receiver, while Brooks may eventually take control of the backfield from Chuba Hubbard.
The defense could be the bigger reason Carolina improves. The additions of Jalen Phillips and Devin Lloyd directly address a unit Stephie previously described as having “cottage cheese booty cheeks” at linebacker. That is not a recognized scouting term, but it feels medically accurate.
Stephie and Ryan both like the Panthers over 7.5 wins and believe 10 victories are possible. They also discuss Carolina’s chances of repeating as NFC South champions, T-Mac’s receiving totals, Coker’s fantasy value and a potential Hubbard rushing-yards under.
The Panthers may not be improving quickly enough to satisfy impatient NFL fans, but they are improving. With roster continuity, a stable coaching staff and a developing quarterback, Carolina might be ready to shock everyone except Stephie and one comedian currently planning an entire tour around attending a Panthers game.
