2026 Season Opener Countdown: 13 Days Remaining

As the Carolina Panthers prepare to host their season opener on October 30, 2026, the countdown to the big game reaches its 13th day. In honor of this day, Cat Scratch Reader has compiled a list of the Top 100 Panthers of all time, honoring the team's most influential players. Today, we highlight center Ryan Kalil, who proudly represents jersey number 13 on this special roster.

Kalil's impressive career with the Panthers spans 155 games and 152 starts, earning him a spot on five Pro Bowl teams and earning him the distinction of being named to the All-Pro First team twice and the Second team once. His impact on the team goes beyond his impressive stats, as Kalil was known for his humor, vocal presence, and influential role in shaping the team's culture.

In 2014, ESPN's David Newton dubbed him the "Funniest Panther," and his memorable full-page ad in the Charlotte Observer in 2012, predicting a Super Bowl victory, remains a cherished memory for Panthers fans.

During his tenure with the Panthers, Kalil was an integral part of four teams that achieved at least 11 wins, including the historic 15-1 season in 2015, which secured the NFC championship and a Super Bowl appearance. He was arguably the best center in the NFL between 2011 and 2015, showcasing his exceptional skills during those four healthy seasons.

Although Kalil announced his retirement after the 2018 season, his dedication and passion for the game earned him a second chance with the New York Jets in 2019. Nonetheless, he remains a legend among Panthers fans, and many believe that his jersey number 13 should be significantly higher on the list of the Top 100 Panthers of all time.