Former Utah linebacker Devin Lloyd recorded a historic performance for the Carolina Panthers on Sept. 20, 2026, tallying two interceptions, a touchdown, a sack, and nine tackles in a 34-12 victory over the Atlanta Falcons. The standout performance helped the Panthers secure their first win of the season at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Lloyd's dominant showing on Sept. 20, 2026, marked a significant milestone in his fifth professional season. According to Fox Sports, Lloyd's statistical line for the game included two interceptions and a touchdown, alongside a sack and nine total tackles. This performance contributed to a decisive win for the Panthers, moving them to a 1-1 record for the season.
The victory for the Panthers came during a Week 2 matchup against the Falcons. While the Panthers secured the 34-12 win, the Falcons fell to a 0-2 record. Per the Atlanta Falcons official website, the game saw the Panthers control much of the action, despite the Falcons recording 286 total yards compared to the Panthers' 286. The Falcons' scoring was highlighted by a 41-yard field goal from Nick Folk, which briefly trimmed the Panthers' lead to 13-3 before halftime.
Lloyd's ascent to professional success follows a decorated collegiate career at the University of Utah. As reported by Utah Hutes, Lloyd starred for the Utes from 2017 to 2021, a tenure that included being voted a team captain in 2021. During that season, he helped lead the Utes to a Pac-12 Championship while the program navigated the loss of two teammates in less than a year.
During his senior year at Utah, Lloyd was recognized as a consensus All-American and was named the Pat Tillman Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year. He also earned the AP Defensive Player of the Year honors and was a finalist for both the Butkus Award and the Lott IMPACT Trophy. His collegiate accolades set the stage for his professional career, which began with the Jacksonville Jaguars before he signed a three-year contract with the Panthers as a free agent during the 2026 offseason.
The Panthers' offensive performance was also bolstered by quarterback Bryce Young, who completed 23 of 36 passes for 287 yards and three touchdowns. According to Fox Sports, Young's performance helped maintain the team's momentum. He was supported by running back Chuba Hubbard, who recorded 12 carries for 53 yards and a touchdown, and tight end Darren Waller, who caught two touchdowns on three receptions for 33 yards.
The Falcons' offense, led by quarterback Chrisme Rush, managed 287 total yards but struggled to find the end zone consistently. The team's rushing attack was led by Bijan Robinson, who had 16 carries for 72 yards and one touchdown. The Falcons' passing game included 26 completions from various attempts, but they were unable to overcome the Panthers' defensive surge led by Lloyd.
Beyond Lloyd, the University of Utah continues to see a strong presence in the NFL. Utah Hutes reported that there are 33 former Utes currently on professional rosters. Other notable alumni making impacts include former quarterback Brian Johnson, who serves as a senior offensive assistant for the Los Angeles Rams, and Mike McCoy, who joined the Las Vegas Raiders as an assistant head coach. Other Utes in the league include offensive lineman Garett Bolles in Denver and defensive back Jaylon Johnson in Chicago.
