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The Carolina Panthers face mounting pressure surrounding quarterback Bryce Young‘s long-term viability with the franchise. Consistent offensive execution remains elusive, and most analysts question whether the team can contend for the playoffs with its current quarterback situation.
Analyst John Middlekauff recently revealed the biggest problem with Young.
“I have a ton of respect for Bryce Young. If you’re 5-foot-9 and 185 pounds and you can play in the SEC and the NFL, you’re a tough mother******. Problem is, he’s not that good. You’re watching him play. His coach isn’t helping him out. It doesn’t feel like anyone knows what’s going on. And I’m thinking to Dave Canales, are you guys practicing?” Middlekauff said.
"I have a lot of respect for Bryce Young… the problem is he's not that good."@JohnMiddlekauff reacts to the Panthers QB's performance in a MNF loss vs. the 49ers. pic.twitter.com/re1xikCVyQ
— 3 & OUT with John Middlekauff (@3andout_pod) November 25, 2025
Young struggled to maintain momentum after an impressive outing against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 11, when he threw for 448 yards and three touchdowns. Against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 12, his performance deteriorated significantly.
He completed 18 of 29 passes for 169 yards with two interceptions, including one from the 1-yard line on first-and-goal. The loss represented a missed chance for Carolina to take over the lead in the NFC South.
The Panthers’ defense generated three first-half interceptions of 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy, but the offense managed only 230 total yards. Young has played nine games without reaching 200 passing yards in 11 starts this season.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers remain ahead of Carolina in the division. With five games remaining, Young’s performance will directly influence the franchise’s direction heading into the offseason.
Carolina’s positioning and potential quarterback interest in the 2026 NFL Draft could determine whether Young receives a contract extension or loses his job.
NEXT: Rico Dowdle Gets Honest About Panthers' Run Game Struggles