The NFL offseason has shifted into the workout phase, with teams staying active in free agency, the NFL Draft, and contract negotiations with their own players.
The Carolina Panthers face several upcoming extension decisions, including one involving quarterback Bryce Young. The Big Lead recently examined whether the Panthers should pursue a new deal for Young this season.
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After exercising Young’s fifth-year option, the Panthers appear to have made a decision on a long-term extension — at least for now. Reports indicate the team plans to table contract talks until next offseason.
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That decision is notable. Although Young has shown steady improvement over the past two seasons, he still hasn’t fully lived up to his draft status.
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30. Carolina Panthers — $2,210,496
Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young (9) reacts in the fourth quarter in an NFC Wild Card Round game at Bank of America Stadium. Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
In need of more time?
At one point during his sophomore season, the Panthers benched Young in favor of veteran Andy Dalton. Since returning to the starting lineup, however, Young has responded well and continued to develop.
Since his return in 2024, Young has thrown 38 touchdowns compared to just 17 interceptions. That production marks a significant improvement from the 11 touchdowns and 13 interceptions he recorded during his rookie season and the early part of the 2024 campaign.
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Still, despite that progress, Young has yet to fully justify the massive investment Carolina made to acquire him. In 2023, the Panthers traded two first-round picks, two second-round picks, and wide receiver D.J. Moore to the Chicago Bears for the No. 1 overall pick.
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Carolina then used that selection on Young. Some analysts at the time believed the franchise significantly overpaid to move up.
Jan 10, 2026; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young (9) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams in the first half during the NFC Wild Card Round game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Three years later, questions about the trade still remain. Young, however, controls much of the narrative moving forward. Another playoff run would go a long way toward strengthening his case.
The pressure now falls on Young to lead the Panthers back to the postseason — and this time, to make a deeper run than a one-and-done appearance.
Will Young play well enough in 2026 to lead Carolina to success and earn himself a lucrative extension in 2027?