NFL Playoffs 2026: Carolina Panthers Clinch Berth as Myles Garrett Breaks Sack Record

The Carolina Panthers didn't even have to put on their pads to secure a post-season spot this Sunday. According to AFP, the Panthers advanced to the NFL playoffs following Atlanta's narrow 19-17 victory over New Orleans. In an unusual closing day scenario, the result triggered a three-way tie-breaker that saw Carolina emerge as the NFC South champions despite an identical 8-9 record among division rivals.

Tie-Breaker Drama and the NFL Playoffs 2026 Picture

The battle for the final NFC spot came down to the wire after Tampa Bay defeated Carolina on Saturday, leaving multiple clubs at 8-9. The Falcons’ win on Sunday pulled them even with the Panthers and Buccaneers, but Carolina’s superior head-to-head metrics secured their post-season berth. Meanwhile, Seattle claimed the NFC top seed with a 14-3 record. Other NFC contenders heading to the playoffs include defending champions Philadelphia, Chicago, Green Bay, and the Los Angeles Rams.

Myles Garrett Sets New Single-Season Sack Milestone

History was made in Cleveland as Myles Garrett officially broke the NFL single-season sack record. By taking down Cincinnati's Joe Burrow in the fourth quarter, Garrett reached 23 sacks for the season. This feat surpasses the previous mark of 23.5 shared by T.J. Watt (2021) and Michael Strahan (2001). Garrett's dominance fueled the Browns to a 20-18 victory, cementing his status as a defensive powerhouse.