Why Mina Kimes can’t wait to watch Panthers’ defense in 2026

After making the playoffs last season, the Carolina Panthers aim for a big 2026-27 campaign. While much of the attention is on Bryce Young’s development and the offense gelling, the defense is seemingly flying under the radar. ESPN’s Mina Kimes opened up about why she believes Carolina could have one of the best defenses in the league next season.

In the latest episode of “The Mina Kimes Show,” the popular analyst believes the Panthers appear to have the most improved defense in the NFL, on paper at least. She claims that the defense is littered with high-caliber talent. However, she does admit this team still has to prove it on gamedays.

“Carolina, look, I’m so enticed by this defense,” said Kimes. “I was so close to putting them in the top 10 because they have top 10 players at premium positions. Derrick Brown, Jaelen Phillips, Devin Lloyd, Jaycee Horn, and Mike Jackson. Like, that alone is enough. I have questions about a lot of the other positions. Safety, nickel. It feels like, okay, let’s see if [the named] players can kind of elevate everyone else.”

On paper, the Carolina Panthers defense looks like one of the most improved units in football… pic.twitter.com/bhIciTjbDj

— Mina Kimes (@minakimes) June 26, 2026

Mina Kimes is highly impressed with nearly 50% of the Panthers’ defensive starters. Depending on the play from the rest of the defensive group, this is a defense that could cause fits for opposing teams. Kimes offered edge rusher Nic Scourton as an example of someone who could have a big year for Carolina due to playing alongside Brown and Phillips.

The Panthers’ defense will have an early test to begin the new campaign when the club takes on the Chicago Bears in Week 1. Luckily, it will be a home game for Carolina when the club faces off against Caleb Williams and Chicago’s high-powered offense.

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