Bryce Young’s Future in Question as Panthers Face Offseason QB Decision

The Carolina Panthers have a major offseason decision to make. The team must evaluate quarterback Bryce Young’s future. This comes after a 2025 season that highlighted his struggles.Young was the first overall pick in 2023. His performance has not met expectations. This leaves the Panthers’ front office with a clear but difficult choice ahead.

Young’s Performance Data Shows a Clear Trend

The statistics for Bryce Young are concerning. According to Sports Illustrated, he ranks last among qualifying NFL quarterbacks in key advanced metrics. This includes EPA per play and success rate.His performance against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 12 was telling. The Panthers’ defense created three turnovers. Young failed to capitalize, scoring only three points off those opportunities.While he had a 448-yard game against Atlanta, it was an outlier. Consistency has been his biggest issue. This has stalled the progress of an otherwise improving roster.

A Strengthening Roster Amplifies the QB Problem

The Panthers are not a bad team everywhere. Their defense, under coordinator Ejiro Evero, has climbed to league average. This is a significant improvement from recent years.On offense, young skill players are emerging. Rookie receiver Tetairoa McMillan led all first-year players in receiving yards. Running back Rico Dowdle was a productive free-agent find.This context makes the quarterback play more glaring. The team is building a competent foundation. The missing piece is reliable play from the sport’s most important position.

The Financial and Strategic Crossroads

The Panthers hold a critical option on Young’s contract. They must decide on his fifth-year option for the 2027 season. The financial commitment would be substantial.Declining the option is the most likely path. It gives the team maximum flexibility. ESPN analysts note the Panthers are not trapped by a long-term, expensive deal.With their own first-round draft picks restored, Carolina can explore alternatives. The 2026 draft class features several promising quarterback prospects. The franchise is positioned for a potential reset at the position.

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The Panthers’ journey back to relevance hinges on solving the quarterback dilemma. For Bryce Young, the upcoming months will define his career in Carolina. The team’s improved roster demands a higher standard of play.

Info at your fingertips

What are Bryce Young’s main statistical issues?

He ranks last in EPA per play and success rate. His inability to consistently drive the offense and score points is the core problem. Even with a better supporting cast, the offense often stalls.

When is the decision on Young’s fifth-year option due?

The deadline is in May 2026. The Panthers must decide whether to guarantee his salary for the 2027 season. This decision will signal their long-term commitment.

Could the Panthers draft a QB in 2026?

Yes, it is a strong possibility. Analysts from The Athletic connect Carolina to several top prospects. The team has its first-round pick and the capital to make a move.

How has the Panthers’ defense improved?

The unit jumped from one of the league’s worst to the middle of the pack. They create more turnovers and get timely stops. This improvement makes the offensive shortcomings more noticeable.

Who are potential quarterback replacements?

Names like Fernando Mendoza (Indiana) and Dante Moore (Oregon) are mentioned. The draft board will become clearer after the college season and scouting combine. Carolina will thoroughly evaluate all options.