Between their push towards serious contendership and the early MVP case their starting quarterback is making, the Carolina Panthers are getting a bit more props these days. But Derrick Brown isn't falling for it.
The seventh-year lineman chatted with reporters from his locker following Thursday's practice. When asked about the increased national attention his team has been getting, Brown—in a statement that would make Admiral Ackbar proud—admitted he's leery of it all . . .
Derrick Brown on the increased national attention the team is getting:
— Sheena Quick (@Sheena_Marie3) October 22, 2026
“In my head, it’s a trap.”#Pantherspic.twitter.com/UrfnzUTaf5
A lot of that attention came the Panthers' way in Week 4, after their impressive 32-26 win over the Detroit Lions. The victory yielded stellar performances from quarterback Bryce Young, the NFL's current leader in passing yards per game, and second-year wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan—who was named the NFC Offensive Player of the Week for his efforts.
Brown and the defense haven't been too shabby themselves. Since Week 2, the unit has allowed the second-fewest points per game (16.0) and the fifth-fewest yards per play (4.71).
Carolina enters their Week 7 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at 3-2. They hold a 1.5-game lead atop the NFC South, and seem well on track to repeat as division champions.
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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Derrick Brown isn't falling for Panthers' new wave of national attention