Seattle’s defense again doing what it has all season also would set up a showdown next week at San Francisco for the NFC West title.

With the No. 8 overall pick, the Panthers selected Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan and he has already transformed the offense in his first season in the league. NFL.com writer Bucky Brooks graded the first-round picks and gave McMillan an "A" for his efforts.

According to head coach Dave Canalaes, starting left tackle Ikem Ekwonu is expected to return to the lineup here in Week 17. Ekwonu, who missed last weekend's massive win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers due to a knee injury, was a full participant in practice throughout the week and has been listed without a game designation.

The Panthers returned to practice on Wednesday. The Charlotte Observer was there to get the latest news, notes and more before Christmas.

The Carolina Panthers are on the verge of their first division title since 2017. However, closing the deal on the NFC South may be a lot easier said than done.

A new poll of high-ranking NFL execs shows that Panthers WR Tetairoa McMillan is the clear favorite for Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.

The Carolina Panthers have been one of the most downtrodden NFL franchises over the last decade, but for the first time since 2022, they’re playing meaningful football in December.