The Carolina Panthers achieved a 34-17 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars in a preseason game on Friday night, August 22, 2026. Quarterback Bryce Young demonstrated improved performance in his second preseason appearance, completing five of six passes for 49 yards and orchestrating a touchdown drive.
Young led a 58-yard scoring drive on the Panthers’ second possession, securing five first downs, a notable increase from his previous game against Buffalo. Jonathon Brooks concluded this drive with a 1-yard touchdown run. Panthers coach Dave Canales expressed excitement about seeing the team’s camp performance translate into the game, viewing the outing as a positive step for the team’s identity.
A.J. Dillon also scored for the Panthers, and receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. showcased his versatility with a 39-yard end-around, a 29-yard kickoff return, and a 15-yard reception. This performance marked a significant improvement for Carolina’s first-team offense, which had struggled in a previous game against the Bills, managing only 11 yards in three drives.
The game was suspended with two minutes remaining due to lightning, but both coaches agreed to end it early. The Jaguars, who held out all their starters for the second consecutive week, experienced a messy game with nine penalties in the first half and two turnovers. Running back Ameer Abdullah was a bright spot for Jacksonville, accumulating 82 total yards, including 45 rushing yards and 37 receiving yards. Jaguars coach Liam Coen noted Abdullah’s consistent performance in practice.
Jaguars backup quarterback Nick Mullens also had a better outing, completing six of seven passes for 65 yards and leading a 71-yard drive that resulted in a field goal. For the Panthers, receiver Roc Taylor made a significant play with a 16-yard touchdown catch from Kenny Pickett late in the third quarter.
The Panthers held out a dozen players, including projected starters such as defensive end Derrick Brown, cornerback Jaycee Horn, running back Chuba Hubbard, receiver Xavier Legette, and linebacker Devin Lloyd.
