Following the quarterback’s career year, in which he passed for 3,011 yards with 23 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, all career highs, the Panthers [picked up](https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-news-roundup-latest-league-updates-from-tuesday-jan-13) Young’s fifth-year option, keeping him under contract through the 2027 season. Young is eligible for an extension, but there has been little discussion of any long-term deal. Both the Panthers and the QB’s camp seem comfortable playing things out.
With Carolina having Young under contract for two more years, plus the franchise tag at its disposal beyond that, the club can take its time and ensure Young continues his upward trajectory before making a massive investment.
“I'll just let the rest of the stuff just sort itself out, with all the conversations with his whole group and party and our front office here with (general manager) Dan (Morgan) and (executive vice president of football operations) Brandt (Tilis) working that part out," Canales added. "But for me, especially now not calling plays, I get to just enjoy this road, help him improve on a daily basis and really take that input and get him to take the next step."
Young taking the next step would go a long way toward proving that last year’s playoff appearance wasn’t a fluke for the Panthers. If the QB develops and Carolina is a legit contender, then contract talks will be more earnest in 2027.