Bears vs. Panthers preview Week 1

Here's everything you need to know when the Chicago Bears play the Carolina Panthers Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season.

This week on Sideline Pass, Kristen Balboni and Sharon Thorsland recap the Panthers' preseason, discuss the biggest roster surprises, and break down the team's physical identity heading into Week 1 against Chicago.

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan explains the reason behind his 20 pound weight gain on "The NFL Report".

Today on The Handoff, Jonathan Stewart and Jake Delhomme dive into the emotional reality of roster cuts, discuss the Panthers' revamped linebacker room, reflect on key preseason takeaways, and look ahead to what's in store as Carolina prepares for Week 1 against Chicago.

Watch Panthers receiver Tetairoa McMillan comment on his award-winning rookie season, expectations entering Year 2, avoiding a sophomore slump, facing increased defensive attention, competing against Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson in practice, and why his biggest goal for 2026 is helping Carolina win a playoff game.

Watch Panthers running back AJ Dillon meet with the media to discuss his first season in Carolina, learning a new offense, and sharing the backfield with Chuba Hubbard and Jonathon Brooks as the team focuses on Week 1.

Watch Panthers head coach Dave Canales speak with the media following practice as the team shifts its focus toward Week 1 against the Chicago Bears. Canales discussed AJ Dillon's expanded workload, Darren Waller's return to practice, the development of Tetairoa McMillan and how the Panthers are using this week to prepare for game situations ahead of the regular season.

Watch Panthers tight end Tommy Tremble discuss Carolina's deep tight end room, the versatility each player brings to the offense, and the team's growth throughout training camp and the preseason.

Watch the Panthers newest addition, Bobby Okereke, discuss why he chose the Carolina Panthers, how he stayed ready during free agency, his role on the defense, leadership philosophy, and excitement to contribute alongside the team's young linebackers as Carolina prepares for Week 1.

Watch Panthers head coach Dave Canales discuss the addition of Bobby Okereke, key roster decisions, and Carolina's focus as preparations begin for Week 1 against the Chicago Bears. He also shares his thoughts on the team's depth, competition, and readiness for the regular season, emphasizing the importance of earning roles and staying prepared.

Panthers GM Dan Morgan meets with the media to break down the process behind final roster cuts and what it took to build this year's 53-man roster and practice squad.

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Stetson Bennett gets intercepted by Los Angeles Chargers defensive lineman TeRah Edwards, who was acquired by the Panthers in a trade Sunday night.

Watch Panthers LB Claudin Cherelus reflect on the final stretch of training camp, the trust and communication that's built with Devin Lloyd in the room, how much it means to see the ball-security emphasis show up on tape, and the relief of finally turning the page toward games that count.

Watch Panthers QB Kenny Pickett weigh in on a productive training camp, praising the team's coaches for putting players in position to succeed and highlighting the strong chemistry within the quarterback room.

Watch Panthers WR David Moore discuss his return to full health after last season's injury and the chance to continue proving himself during training camp. He also highlights the supportive culture in the wide receiver room, where players have focused on growth and helping each other succeed.

Long Snapper JJ Jansen joins Anish Shroff and Panthers Legends Steve Smith, Sr. and Jake Delhomme as a 4th quarter guest color analyst vs. Houston.

Watch the Houston Texans vs. Carolina Panthers highlights during Preseason Week 3 of the 2026 season.

Jeremiah Moon (Carolina Panthers) with a Spectacular Sack vs. Houston Texans, 08/28/2026

Panthers head coach Dave Canales on wrapping up the preseason with a win over the Texans, cleaning up penalties, and he also provides injury updates ahead of cutdown weekend.

Carolina Panthers running back Miles Davis caps 14-play drive with 1-yard TD.

Carolina Panthers running back Anthony Tyus rips off 16-yard run.

Carolina Panthers cornerback Cam Miller takes advantage ball sailing over WRs head with INT.

Carolina Panthers kicker Ryan Fitzgerald sneaks 30-yard FG through uprights to tie game at 3-3.

Watch Panthers linebacker Cam Gill recover Texans running back Deuce Vaughn's fumble in the second quarter.

Carolina Panthers safety Lathan Ransom intercepts Houston Texans quarterback Davis Mills' duck.