The NFL schedule for the 2026 season is still under wraps, but early projections are already giving us a fascinating glimpse into which teams will have the easiest—and toughest—travel itineraries. And if you're a fan of staying close to home, the Carolina Panthers are your team to watch.

According to the latest estimates, the Panthers will log just 8,740 miles of travel during the regular season, the fewest in the league. That's a huge advantage in a sport where jet lag and road fatigue can make or break a playoff run. With only eight road games on their slate—thanks to the NFL's scheduling formula—Carolina will face division rivals, plus matchups against the Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers (as the NFC South takes on the AFC North), and the Philadelphia Eagles.

Not far behind are the Cleveland Browns, who will rack up 9,073 miles. But the real story here is how a light travel schedule can pave the way for success. Just look at last year's Super Bowl LX champions, the New England Patriots. They barely left the Eastern Time Zone during the regular season, with their longest trip being a game in New Orleans. That kind of home-field comfort helped them build momentum all the way to the title game.

On the flip side, the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams are facing a grueling travel year. They'll kick off the season in Australia—the NFL's first regular-season game Down Under—at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on September 10-11. And for the 49ers, it doesn't stop there: they'll also head to Mexico City in Week 11 to face the Minnesota Vikings. That's two international trips before the playoffs even start.

So, could the Panthers ride their mileage advantage all the way to the Super Bowl? History says it's possible. With less time on planes and more time in their own beds, Carolina might just have the edge they need to make some noise in 2026.