The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Carolina Panthers</a> are quietly approaching a defining offseason. With the 2026 calendar looming, contract timelines are beginning to matter and several roster decisions could shape how this team looks beyond its rebuild phase.



Among the names tied to expiring deals is Rico Dowdle, a player whose role has evolved amid shifting expectations. His situation reflects a broader crossroads for the team, where depth, flexibility and future planning are starting to collide.



As negotiations wait and evaluations continue, they face familiar <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> pressure: deciding who fits the long-term vision and who may be passing through. The answers won’t come all at once, but the groundwork is already being laid.



<h2>Carolina Panthers free agents in 2026</h2>



As the Panthers transition from their 2025 campaign into the heart of the offseason, a notable portion of the roster now heads toward free agency. Carolina will have around two dozen players with expiring contracts when the league year opens in March, leaving key decisions for management and cap planners.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/13102659/Rico-Dowdle-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-561216"></figure><figcaption>Rico Dowdle in 2025 (Source: Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



At the forefront of Carolina’s impending departures is running back Rico Dowdle, fresh off a fruitful season that saw him lead the team in rushing after signing a short-term deal last year. He now enters free agency alongside a host of veterans whose futures are far from decided.



For a Panthers roster that found its stride late in the season, those names represent more than just expiring deals — they’re part of a larger roster puzzle Carolina must piece together before 2026.



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Player</td><td>Position</td><td>Free agent type</td></tr><tr><td>D.J. Wonnum</td><td>DL</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Yosh Nijman</td><td>T</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Cade Mays</td><td>C</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Austin Corbett</td><td>C</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Brady Christensen</td><td>G</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Rico Dowdle</td><td>RB</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Christian Rozeboom</td><td>LB</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Hunter Renfrow</td><td>WR</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Sam Martin</td><td>P</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>David Moore</td><td>WR</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>J.J. Jansen</td><td>LS</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Nick Scott</td><td>S</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Isaiah Simmons</td><td>LB</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Damarri Mathis</td><td>CB</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Akayleb Evans</td><td>CB</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>D’Anthony Bell</td><td>S</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Thomas Incoom</td><td>ED</td><td>Restricted</td></tr><tr><td>James Mitchell</td><td>TE</td><td>Restricted</td></tr><tr><td>LaBryan Ray</td><td>DL</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Claudin Cherelus</td><td>LB</td><td>Restricted</td></tr><tr><td>Jalen Coker</td><td>WR</td><td>Exclusive rights</td></tr><tr><td>Demani Richardson</td><td>S</td><td>Unrestricted</td></tr><tr><td>Bryce Tremayne</td><td>WR</td><td>Exclusive rights</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption>(Source: Spotrac)</figcaption></figure>

Carolina Panthers 2026 free agents: Rico Dowdle and other players out of contract

Carolina Panthers 2026 free agents: Rico Dowdle and other players out of contract - Bolavip US

miniaturas

The hope of advancing further in the 2026 NFL playoffs was very high. In fact, they were close to doing so until the final moments. However, the Carolina Panthers fell to the Rams, and from now on, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bryce-young">Bryce Young</a> and his team will have to focus on building on what they accomplished.



One of the main factors for Dave Canales’ team reaching this far has undeniably been its offense, particularly on the ground. Rico Dowdle has been its primary contributor, though his future seems uncertain heading into what’s next.



During a recent conversation with the media in the locker room, the explosive running back focused on how his playing time decreased as the weeks went on—something that could potentially tip the scales in the upcoming free agency.



“I just want to be a guy who can get the ball,” Dowdle said. While the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Panthers</a> trust they can assemble a competitive roster to improve on last season, the running back’s comments cast doubt on his stay in Carolina.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Panthers RB Rico Dowdle on how his decreased reps down the stretch (5 carries on Saturday) will impact his decision on whether to return to Carolina or sign somewhere else as a free agent. <a href="https://t.co/D4LAlgG23B">pic.twitter.com/D4LAlgG23B</a>— Steve Reed (@SteveReedAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/SteveReedAP/status/2010376314776076798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2>The Young-Dowdle tandem was key for the Panthers</h2>



In a breakout 2025 campaign with the Carolina Panthers, Rico Dowdle evolved into a vital asset for Bryce Young, providing the offensive balance needed to sustain drives. 


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Dowdle amassed 1,076 rushing yards on 236 carries, maintaining a highly efficient 4.6 average and punching in 6 touchdowns on the ground. His explosive mid-season form, highlighted by franchise-record performances, made him a key weapon that relieved pressure on Young’s passing game. 



However, his on-field appearances notably tapered off during the latter stages of the season due to tactical adjustments by the coaching staff. Head coach Dave Canales opted for a more rigid hot hand rotation with Chuba Hubbard and specialized personnel packages that prioritized situational blocking and fresh legs, which often saw Dowdle’s snap counts fluctuate despite his proven playmaking ability.

Bryce Young at risk of losing key weapon after Panthers’ elimination from the 2026 NFL playoffs

Bryce Young at risk of losing key weapon after Panthers’ elimination from the 2026 NFL playoffs - Bolavip US

The 2026 NFL playoff picture was updated after a dramatic Wild Card weekend, highlighted by the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chicago-bears">Chicago Bears</a>’ thrilling victory over the Green Bay Packers and the Los Angeles Rams’ narrow win against the Carolina Panthers.



The Bears defeated the Packers in a tightly contested Wild Card matchup, earning a spot in the Divisional Round. With the loss, Green Bay was officially eliminated from the postseason, bringing its playoff run to an end.



Chicago sealed the 27–24 victory in the final quarter thanks to a clutch and decisive deep pass from quarterback Caleb Williams. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/green-bay-packers">Packers</a> had late opportunities, but the Bears’ defense held firm, leaving Green Bay just a field goal away from forcing overtime.



With the win, the Bears advanced as the No. 2 seed in the NFC and are now set to face either the Philadelphia Eagles or the Los Angeles Rams in the Divisional Round, depending on the remaining conference results.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1586" height="736" data-id="559826" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/10234114/Screenshot-2026-01-10-234050-1586x736.webp" alt="Playoff bracket updated." class="wp-image-559826"></figure><figcaption>Playoff bracket updated.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



Meanwhile, the Rams eliminated the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Panthers</a> with a 34–31 victory in the Wild Card Round. Carolina was officially knocked out of the playoffs, while Los Angeles moved on as the No. 5 seed in the NFC. Los Angeles’ next opponent will be determined by the rest of the Divisional Round outcomes, with potential matchups against the Seattle Seahawks, Philadelphia Eagles, Chicago Bears, or San Francisco 49ers.



<h2>Rams stay alive as contenders</h2>


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Los Angeles once again showed resilience, surviving despite late-game adversity against Carolina. Matthew Stafford’s leadership proved decisive as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams">Rams</a> overcame mistakes and advanced, reinforcing their status as one of the most dangerous teams remaining in the NFC.


 

 


<h2>What remains to be decided in the Wild Card</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> Wild Card Round continues on Sunday and Monday, with matchups featuring the Buffalo Bills vs Jacksonville Jaguars, the San Francisco 49ers vs the Philadelphia Eagles, the Los Angeles Chargers vs the New England Patriots, and the Houston Texans taking on the Pittsburgh Steelers.

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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Carolina Panthers</a> entered the 2026 playoffs as the biggest underdog in the NFL. After winning the NFC South thanks to a result that did not depend on them, the Falcons’ victory over the Saints, no one believed in miracles.



However, in the Panthers’ memory was the fresh reminder of Week 13, when they surprised the Rams, their opponent in the Wild Card Round of the postseason. They already knew the formula to defeat Matthew Stafford.



Now, as double-digit favorites, Sean McVay and his players had to prove all those expectations as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> contenders despite a second half of the schedule in which they were very inconsistent.



<h2>Are Panthers out of the 2026 NFL playoffs?</h2>



Yes. The Panthers are officially out of the playoffs after losing 34–31 to the Los Angeles Rams in the Wild Card round. Bryce Young had the opportunity to tie the game on the final drive, but he was unable to complete the epic comeback.


 

 


Now, as the No. 5 seed, the Rams will be waiting for their next opponent in the Divisional Round. They have many possible options: the Seattle Seahawks, the Chicago Bears, the Philadelphia Eagles, or the San Francisco 49ers.



In this scenario, the only way they could have a home game in the Divisional Round is if the 49ers and Packers win their games in Wild Card round. That would result in Seattle vs Green Bay at Lumen Field and Rams vs San Francisco at SoFi Stadium.


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Are Panthers officially eliminated from 2026 NFL playoffs after game with Rams in Wild Card round? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/matthew-stafford">Matthew Stafford</a> has achieved another huge milestone in his NFL career. It has been confirmed that the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams">Los Angeles Rams</a> star was named First-Team All-Pro. The AP confirmed that the veteran received more votes than Drake Maye of the New England Patriots.



This accolade could give him a very important boost to win the MVP award. That race also appears to be only between two players: Stafford and Maye. Nevertheless, being a First-Team All-Pro is a very significant edge for potential voters.



At the moment, Matthew Stafford and the Rams are trying to win a second <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> in the playoffs. The quarterback had a great 2025 season with 4,707 yards, 46 touchdowns, and only 8 interceptions.



<h2>Will Matthew Stafford retire if Rams lose to Panthers?</h2>



Matthew Stafford has shown no signs that he plans to retire, even if the Rams lose to the Panthers. Although he is 37 years old, the level he has shown allows him to play several more seasons at a high level.


 

 


<h2>Rams can win the Super Bowl</h2>



Despite entering the playoffs as the No. 5 seed, the Rams are favorites for many experts to be the NFC representative in the Super Bowl. This is ahead of other teams such as the Seahawks, Bears, or Eagles.


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Matthew Stafford gets important update on his NFL career even if Rams lose to Panthers in 2026 playoffs - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers</a> have made the NFL playoffs for the first time in seven years. Now, the club has made its final decision regarding the future of Bryce Young as QB1.



It took three seasons for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bryce-young" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bryce Young</a> to reach the playoffs. In previous years, the Panthers were reportedly open to trading him, but after a solid 2025 NFL season, those discussions appear to be off the table.



According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Panthers plan to exercise the fifth-year option in Bryce Young’s contract. This decision keeps him in Carolina for at least two more seasons, with the possibility of a new long-term deal depending on his performance and the team’s results in the 2026 playoffs.



<h2>Bryce Young has improved, but success is still missing</h2>



The 2025 season was a step forward for Bryce Young. The former No. 1 overall pick showed improvement across nearly every statistical category, helping the Panthers end a seven-year playoff drought.



Young finished the regular season with an 8-8 record, a 63.6% completion rate, 3,011 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. Aside from the interceptions, those numbers represent career highs for him.



However, this still falls short of what Carolina expected after investing so much in the former Alabama standout. With a final QB rating of 47.7, questions remain about Young’s ceiling, which explains why the Panthers are not ready to offer a contract extension without seeing further development over the next two years.


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Reaching the 2026 playoffs helps his case, but Young must deliver greater success and turn the Panthers into legitimate contenders. Otherwise, the organization may allow his rookie contract to play out and consider moving on if results don’t improve.



<h2>The NFC South may be helping Bryce Young</h2>



Many fans consider the NFC South the weakest division in the NFL. While that may have helped Bryce Young gain confidence, it also raises concerns about how he performs against stronger competition.



Carolina finished 5-6 against non-division opponents and 3-3 within the NFC South. The Panthers were not dominant either inside or outside the division, which continues to fuel doubts about Young’s overall impact and long-term potential as a franchise quarterback.

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Panthers make final decision on Bryce Young's continuity as QB1 for 2026 season - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Carolina Panthers</a> lost to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 18, but thanks to a victory by the Atlanta Falcons over the Saints, they were able to win the NFC South and clinch a spot in the playoffs.



That means the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/are-the-bucs-eliminated-from-nfl-playoffs-with-loss-to-panthers">Buccaneers were officially eliminated</a> and the Panthers will have a postseason game at home as division champions. A huge break of luck, or destiny, that very few expected with that three-way tie at the top of the standings.



Now, despite being the biggest underdog in the NFL to win the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a>, the Panthers will host <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/puka-nacua-and-sean-mcvay-send-clear-message-to-nfl-and-referees-after-rams-overtime-loss-against-seahawks">Matthew Stafford and the Rams</a>. It is important to remember that in Week 13, Carolina pulled off the upset by defeating Los Angeles. Anything is possible.



<h2>What happens if the Panthers lose against the Rams in the Wild Card round?</h2>



If the Panthers lose to the Rams in the Wild Card Round of the NFL playoffs, Carolina will be officially eliminated. Then, as the No. 5 seed in the NFC, Los Angeles would advance to the Divisional Round, and their next opponent could be the Seattle Seahawks, the Philadelphia Eagles, the Chicago Bears or the San Francisco 49ers.


 

 


<h2>What happens if the Panthers and Rams tie in 2026 playoffs?</h2>



If the Carolina Panthers and the Los Angeles Rams tie, the game will go to overtime under playoff rules. In this scenario, each team will necessarily have at least one possession, unless the defense records a safety on the first drive. The game cannot end in a tie.


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<h2>What happens if the Rams lose today against Panthers in Wild Card round?</h2>



If the Rams lose today to the Panthers, they will be eliminated in a huge upset, considering it is a roster with names like Matthew Stafford, Davante Adams, and Puka Nacua.



In case the Panthers beat the Rams, their No. 4 seed would give them many possible options for opponents in the Divisional Round. They could face the Seahawks, Bears or the Eagles, or even have another home game against the 49ers.

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NFL Playoffs 2026: What happens if Carolina Panthers lose, win or tie today against Rams in Wild Card round? - Bolavip US

During the 2025 NFL regular season, the Carolina Panthers stunned the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Rams</a>. Now, the two teams are set to meet again in the 2026 playoffs, and head coach Sean McVay has made one thing clear about that costly loss to Carolina.



In Week 13, the Panthers shocked the league by defeating the Rams. Now, the teams will face off again in a win-or-go-home scenario, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sean-mcvay" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McVay</a> knows Los Angeles cannot afford to repeat the same mistakes they made in that matchup.



“They did a great job,” McVay said of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panthers</a>‘ win in Week 13. “They made the plays to win the game and we came up short. We had our chances but there’s a lot of learning opps. There’s a lot of learning opps even when we’ve gotten the results we wanted in those 12 wins we had. But this was a good, humbling day.



“You don’t take away anything — they earned that win, but we do have a very clear understanding of what’s going to be required for us to be at our best, to do the things that are necessary first and foremost starting with ourselves, and then geared toward the opponent and the scheme. Our players have a lot of respect for these guys. We’ll be ready to go, but we know what a great challenge it’ll be.”



<h2>The pressure is on the Rams</h2>



For their 2026 Wild Card matchup against the Panthers, the Rams are listed as 10.5-point favorites. Los Angeles is clearly the more talented team on paper, but this is not a game they can take lightly.



The Rams finished the regular season with a 12–5 record, while the Panthers went 8–9. However, Carolina will host the playoff matchup after winning their division, giving them a home-field advantage that could play a significant role in the outcome.


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For many fans, it is <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> or bust for the Rams, while expectations are far lower for the Panthers. That imbalance puts enormous pressure on Sean McVay’s squad, as a loss to a team with a losing record would raise serious questions about whether Los Angeles was ever truly a championship contender.



<h2>Is Matthew Stafford retiring after the 2026 NFL playoffs?</h2>



Before the 2025 NFL season, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/matthew-stafford" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Matthew Stafford</a> agreed to a two-year, $84 million extension with the Rams. However, his future could hinge on how far Los Angeles goes in the playoffs.



According to rumors, the 37-year-old quarterback could consider retirement depending on the postseason outcome. Stafford could either walk away from the game with another Super Bowl title—or return for one final run with the Rams in 2026.

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Rams HC Sean McVay makes candid admission about costly regular-season loss to Panthers - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers</a> return to the NFL playoffs after a seven-year absence. Now, head coach Dave Canales has made something clear to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bryce-young" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bryce Young</a> about how to approach the postseason.



The Panthers made their last playoff appearance in 2018. This season, they are back in the postseason as NFC South champions, but head coach Dave Canales doesn’t want the team to feel overly confident.



Ahead of their game against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Rams</a>, Canales sent a clear message to Bryce Young and the rest of the roster, emphasizing the importance of staying focused and clearing their minds in order to approach this tough matchup the right way.



“It is special, and it’s important that we recognize that, we lean into it and we feed off that energy,” HC Dave Canales said. “At the same time, we’ve got to keep our head about us and execute on the most fundamental parts of it. Because if you get too excited and caught up in the moment, you can sacrifice technique, and sometimes you can go too far and that’s not what I want either.”



<h2>The Panthers are not favorites against the Rams</h2>



During the 2025 regular season, the Panthers shocked everyone by defeating the Rams. However, Los Angeles has changed significantly since then, which is why another surprise is considered unlikely.



Carolina will have home-field advantage thanks to its division title, and the Panthers will need to take full advantage of it to overcome a team many fans view as the strongest NFC contender this year.


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The Panthers have not won a playoff game since 2015, when they reached Super Bowl 50 with Cam Newton leading the offense. Experience is on the Rams’ side, but Canales proved in the regular-season matchup that Carolina is capable of defying the odds.


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In a league built on parity, winning once is never guaranteed. Winning again is harder. But every so often, an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> team finds a rhythm that defies logic, stacking victories until the streak itself becomes part of the season’s identity.



The longest winning streaks ever recorded didn’t happen by accident. They were forged through dominance, timing, and resilience—moments when momentum outweighed matchup and the league was forced to keep count, week after week.



Some of them unfolded quietly, others under constant national spotlight. Regular-season runs bled into playoff pushes, while schedules, injuries and rivalries added pressure that made each consecutive win heavier than the last.



<h2>Which teams have the longest winning streaks in NFL?</h2>



Few teams in National Football League history have ever come close to redefining what “dominance” means the way the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts">Indianapolis Colts</a> did at the end of the 2008 season and the start of 2009. 



Under quarterback <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/peyton-manning">Peyton Manning</a>, they closed 2008 with nine straight wins before opening the next season with 14 more — a combined 23 consecutive regular-season victories that still stands as the longest streak in league history.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260107_BUS_557643_peyton-manning_7c7276e7.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-557656"></figure><figcaption>Peyton Manning in 2008 (Source: Chris Graythen/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



What makes this run extraordinary isn’t just the total, but the context: injuries, travel and the grind of a 16-game schedule make consistency elusive in the NFL. Yet for that stretch across two seasons, they played with an almost mechanical precision that left rivals searching for answers.



Before the Colts rewrote the record book, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots">New England Patriots</a> raised the bar with their own historic run. Between 2006 and 2008, they won 21 straight regular-season games, a streak that came during the heart of the Belichick-Brady era.



Week after week, the Patriots blended strategic depth with veteran poise. Though that run didn’t culminate in an unbeaten season or a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> crown, its arc underscored how difficult it is to stay at the top in the modern league.



<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"><table><tbody><tr><td>Team</td><td>Games</td><td>Seasons</td></tr><tr><td>Indianapolis Colts</td><td>23</td><td>2008 2009</td></tr><tr><td>New England Patriots</td><td>21</td><td>2006 2007 2008</td></tr><tr><td>New England Patriots</td><td>18</td><td>2003 2004</td></tr><tr><td>Carolina Panthers</td><td>18</td><td>2014 2015</td></tr><tr><td>Chicago Bears</td><td>17</td><td>1933 1934</td></tr><tr><td>Denver Broncos</td><td>17</td><td>2012 2013</td></tr><tr><td>Chicago Bears</td><td>16</td><td>1941 1942</td></tr><tr><td>Cleveland Browns</td><td>16</td><td>1947 1948</td></tr><tr><td>Miami Dolphins</td><td>16</td><td>1971 1972 1973</td></tr><tr><td>Miami Dolphins</td><td>16</td><td>1983 1984</td></tr><tr><td>Pittsburgh Steelers</td><td>16</td><td>2004 2005</td></tr><tr><td>San Francisco 49ers</td><td>15</td><td>2022 2023</td></tr><tr><td>Green Bay Packers</td><td>15</td><td>2010 2011</td></tr><tr><td>San Francisco 49ers</td><td>15</td><td>1989 1990</td></tr><tr><td>Los Angeles Chargers</td><td>15</td><td>1960 1961</td></tr><tr><td>Baltimore Ravens</td><td>14</td><td>2019 2020</td></tr><tr><td>Denver Broncos</td><td>14</td><td>1997 1998</td></tr><tr><td>Oakland Raiders</td><td>14</td><td>1976 1977</td></tr><tr><td>Oakland Raiders</td><td>14</td><td>1967 1968</td></tr><tr><td>Los Angeles Rams</td><td>14</td><td>1967 1968</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption>(Source: ESPN)</figcaption></figure>

Most consecutive wins in NFL: The longest winning streaks ever - Bolavip US

Mercedes-Benz Stadium set the stage for one of the most electrifying games of Week 18, as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-orleans-saints">New Orleans Saints</a> and Atlanta Falcons put on a spectacular show. The matchup ultimately decided who would claim the NFC South, between the Carolina Panthers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.



The Falcons’ 19-17 victory was celebrated all the more in Carolina, as it ensured that the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Panthers</a> finally took the division. As a result, Bryce Young and his squad will face the No. 5 seed in the playoffs.



Meanwhile, Baker Mayfield will have to wait another year to make the playoffs. A string of four painful losses down the stretch kept the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Buccaneers</a> out of a Wild Card spot.



<h2>NFC South final standings after Week 18</h2>



Saturday night’s loss for the Panthers in Tampa Bay could have sealed the fate of Dave Canales and his players. However, relief came from <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta</a>, where the home team defeated the Saints, ultimately handing the Panthers the top spot in the NFC South.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260104_BUS_556484_bryce-young-4_09fd93d0.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Bryce Young Carolina Panthers" class="wp-image-549297"></figure><figcaption>Bryce Young #9 of the Carolina Panthers.</figcaption></figure>



<ul><li>Carolina Panthers (8-9)</li><li>Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9)</li><li>Atlanta Falcons (8-9)</li><li>New Orleans Saints (6-11)</li></ul>


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<h2>Why the Panthers claimed the division</h2>



The Carolina Panthers clinched the NFC South thanks to a specific NFL tiebreaker rule for three-way ties. While the Buccaneers held the advantage over the Panthers in a two-way tie (based on a better record against common opponents), the situation changed once the Atlanta Falcons also finished 8-9. 



In a three-way tie at the top of a division, the first tiebreaker is head-to-head win percentage among all tied teams. Because the Panthers swept the Falcons during the regular season, they finished with a superior 3-1 record in head-to-head matchups against Tampa Bay and Atlanta combined, handing them the division title and the No. 4 seed.



<h2>What’s next for the Panthers?</h2>



After a dramatic turn of events on the final day of the 2025 season, the Carolina Panthers have officially clinched the NFC South title—their first since 2015. As the No. 4 seed, the Panthers will now host a home playoff game at Bank of America Stadium during Wild Card Weekend, where they are set to face either the San Francisco 49ers or the Los Angeles Rams.

NFC South final standings for Panthers, Bucs after Saints vs Falcons in 2025 Week 18 - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-orleans-saints">New Orleans Saints</a> had a terrible start to the 2025 season with a 2-10 record. In Kellen Moore’s first year as head coach, the franchise seemed destined to secure the No. 1 overall pick.



Moore gave Spencer Rattler the opportunity to be the starting quarterback in the first half of the schedule, and then Tyler Shough. That move led the Saints to win five of their last seven games in an impressive turnaround.



Although the New Orleans Saints are already eliminated, they will have the opportunity to determine who wins the NFC South when they face the Atlanta Falcons. The outcome of that game will confirm whether the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> or the Panthers make the playoffs.



<h2>What happens if Saints lose to Falcons?</h2>



If the Saints lose to the Falcons, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will be officially eliminated, and the Carolina Panthers will be crowned NFC South champions. With this outcome, the Panthers would enter the playoffs as the No. 4 seed in the conference.


 

 


<h2>What happens if Saints win over Falcons?</h2>



If the Saints get a win over the Falcons, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would be NFC South champions and would clinch a playoff spot. The Carolina Panthers would be eliminated. It’s important to mention that if New Orleans and Atlanta tie, the Bucs would also win the division title.


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What happens if New Orleans Saints lose or win today vs Atlanta Falcons in 2025 NFL Week 18?

What happens if Falcons lose or win today against Saints in NFL Week 18 of 2025 season?

What happens if Saints lose or win today vs Falcons in NFL Week 18? - Bolavip US

What happens if Saints lose or win vs Falcons in 2025 NFL Week 18?

What happens if Saints lose or win today vs Falcons in 2025 NFL Week 18?

The Atlanta Falcons had high expectations for the 2025 season after an impressive rookie year from Michael Penix Jr. The young quarterback was chosen as the starter over <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kirk-cousins">Kirk Cousins</a> to lead an offense that included big names like Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts.



However, the results were disappointing. With a 4–9 record in Week 14, they were practically out of playoff contention, and many experts began to question the future of Raheem Morris as the team’s head coach. A franchise that dreamed of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> ended up in surprising mediocrity.



Suddenly, the players decided to stand up for Morris and his coaching staff on the field. The Falcons turned things around and achieved three consecutive wins after Penix got injured and Cousins took back the reins. This has given hope for 2026 and granted them a strange privilege in the NFC South: controlling the Panthers’ and Buccaneers’ path to the playoffs.



<h2>What happens if Falcons lose today against Saints?</h2>



If the Falcons lose today against the Saints, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would be NFC South champions and would have their playoff berth secured. In this scenario, the Panthers would be eliminated. A tie would also give the divisional title to the Bucs.


 

 


<h2>What happens if Falcons beat Saints in Week 18?</h2>



If the Atlanta Falcons defeat the New Orleans Saints, the Panthers would win the NFC South title. There would be a three-way tie at the top of the division with an 8-9 record, and Carolina would come out on top due to the tiebreaker for better performance against common opponents.


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What happens if Atlanta Falcons lose or win today against New Orleans Saints in NFL Week 18 of 2025 season?

What happens if Buccaneers win today against Panthers in Week 18 of 2025 NFL season?

What happens if Falcons lose or win today against Saints in NFL Week 18? - Bolavip US

What happens if Falcons lose or win today vs Saints?

The NFC South picture became a bit clearer after the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> edged the Carolina Panthers 16–14 at home, a result that gives Tampa Bay another path to the playoffs and a chance to be crowned division champions, pending a key outcome on Sunday, January 4.



With the win, the Buccaneers improved to 8–9, but their playoff fate now hinges on the New Orleans Saints defeating the Atlanta Falcons. If New Orleans takes care of business, Tampa Bay would claim the NFC South title and secure a playoff spot.



Atlanta, meanwhile, must beat the Saints to keep <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Carolina</a>’s hopes alive. The Panthers also sit at 8–9 but would lose a tiebreaker to the Buccaneers due to their head-to-head record, which would be enough to push them into the playoffs and avoid elimination following their disappointing loss in Tampa Bay.



<h2>NFC South standings</h2>



The Buccaneers currently sit atop the NFC South standings at 8–9, but as previously explained, the Panthers, despite having the same record, have not been eliminated yet. Their path depends on the 7–9 Falcons taking care of business against a struggling 6–10 Saints team.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Baker Mayfield… ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! 🤯 📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CARvsTB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CARvsTB</a> on ESPN <a href="https://t.co/vibJ3FEb2z">pic.twitter.com/vibJ3FEb2z</a>— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Buccaneers/status/2007583903184293905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote></div> 



<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-regular"><table><thead><tr><td>Team</td><td>W</td><td>L</td><td>T</td><td>Pct</td><td>PF</td><td>PA</td><td>Home</td><td>Away</td><td>Strk</td></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Buccaneers</td><td>8</td><td>9</td><td>0</td><td>.471</td><td>380</td><td>411</td><td>4-4</td><td>4-5</td><td>W1</td></tr><tr><td>Panthers</td><td>8</td><td>9</td><td>0</td><td>.471</td><td>311</td><td>380</td><td>5-3</td><td>3-6</td><td>L2</td></tr><tr><td>Falcons</td><td>7</td><td>9</td><td>0</td><td>.438</td><td>334</td><td>384</td><td>3-4</td><td>4-5</td><td>W3</td></tr><tr><td>Saints</td><td>6</td><td>10</td><td>0</td><td>.375</td><td>289</td><td>364</td><td>3-5</td><td>3-5</td><td>W4</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption>Data from NFL.com</figcaption></figure>


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Another result that would help the Buccaneers clinch the NFC South title would be a tie between the Falcons and Saints, an outcome that rarely happens, but one that remains possible. Historically, Atlanta holds a slim 57–56–0 edge in the series, leaving the door open for a scenario that could still favor Tampa Bay.



The last time Atlanta beat New Orleans came in November 2025, a 24–10 win that showcased their offensive firepower. That result is what gives Panthers fans some hope, as the Falcons appear to be a slightly stronger team than the Saints heading into this matchup.

NFC South final standings updated after Bucs-Panthers in Week 18 of 2025 NFL season

NFC South final standings updated after Bucs-Panthers in Week 18 of 2025 NFL season - Bolavip US

In Week 18, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> and the Carolina Panthers met with the NFC South title on the line. However, there was more at stake than just the division crown, as a Panthers player secured a $1 million bonus in the first half against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Baker Mayfield</a>’s team.



The NFC South featured a highly compelling matchup in Week 18, with the Buccaneers and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panthers</a> squaring off to decide the division champion in an intense contest at Raymond James Stadium.



At halftime, the Buccaneers headed to the locker room holding a 13-7 lead. Despite the temporary deficit, Panthers running back Rico Dowdle left the field with a smile after locking in a massive incentive.



<h2>Rico Dowdle earns $1 million bonus in first half against Buccaneers</h2>



Rico Dowdle entered Week 18 with two objectives: help defeat the Buccaneers and record seven scrimmage yards. While the outcome of the game remained undecided, the second goal was accomplished before halftime.



According to his contract, Dowdle was eligible for a $1 million bonus if he reached 1,350 scrimmage yards on the season. He entered the game just seven yards shy of the mark and quickly cleared it with 10 rushing yards in the first half, securing the incentive.



That was not the only bonus Dowdle was chasing in Week 18. With one more touchdown on the season, the running back would earn an additional $250,000, something he will be aiming for in the second half against Tampa Bay.


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NFL teams with the most consecutive losses in history: Which franchise holds the record?

Panthers are on the verge of historic feat with a win over Buccaneers in Week 18

Baker Mayfield's Buccaneers help Panthers star earn $1 million incentive in Week 18 - Bolavip US

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