Carolina Panthers fans who stick with free TV just scored a fresh first down. The team has inked a five-year deal that shifts its locally produced preseason broadcasts and year-round programming to WSOC-TV (Channel 9), with coverage set to kick off ahead of training camp. The agreement includes three exhibition games this August plus new original shows that pair team reporters with former players for deeper, local-focused features. Viewers should see quarterback Bryce Young and expanded Panthers content on Channel 9 and the station’s platforms starting in August 2026.
What the deal includes
According to WSOC-TV, Channel 9 will become the home for three preseason telecasts and original team programming under a partnership that runs through the 2030 season. Eric Sudol, chief revenue officer for Tepper Sports & Entertainment, said the move is designed to "bring fans closer to the team through exclusive access and year-round coverage," the station reported. WSOC noted that its sports reporters will receive expanded access to players and coaches for one-on-one interviews and feature segments.
New shows and on-air talent
The Charlotte Business Journal reported that the package includes exclusive weekly shows hosted by former Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis and team reporter Kristen Balboni, in addition to the three August exhibitions. The outlet also reported that Bryce Young will join the on-air lineup beginning in August 2026 as preseason coverage gets underway. The mix of alumni voices and team reporters is intended to deepen Channel 9’s local storytelling around the franchise.
Local TV context
The move sends preseason rights back to Channel 9 after a stint with Fox Charlotte’s WJZY, which began carrying Panthers preseason games in 2022, The Charlotte Observer reported. Local preseason TV packages often rotate as teams and stations negotiate coverage footprints and sponsorship deals. This agreement gives the Panthers a free, over-the-air flagship in Charlotte, which for viewers across the Carolinas should translate into easier access to team programming without a cable subscription.
What fans should know
WSOC has said that game telecasts and original shows will appear across both its television and digital platforms, offering traditional over-the-air viewing along with streaming options through station apps. With the partnership running through the 2030 season, Panthers programming gets a long-term home just as training camp approaches and the August exhibitions near. Station and team officials plan to release specific broadcast times and production details in the coming weeks, according to WSOC-TV.
Fans should watch for official schedule drops from the Panthers and WSOC as August gets closer. Those listings will spell out which preseason games air locally and when the new weekly shows premiere. For now, the deal stands as a notable win for anyone who wants free, local access to Panthers preseason action and original team content ahead of the regular season.
