Posted on Jan 13

Panthers to exercise Young’s fifth-year option, GM Morgan praises QB's potential

Posted Jan 13, 2026

The Carolina Panthers are committed to quarterback Bryce Young, opting to exercise his fifth-year contract option, which guarantees him $26.5 million through 2027.

Why it matters: This decision reflects the franchise's long-term faith in Young’s potential despite a rookie season marked by inconsistency and challenges.

By securing Young for an extended period, the Panthers signal their intent to develop him further as the centerpiece of their offense.
The choice to exercise the option is also strategic, allowing the team to evaluate Young while planning for future roster moves.

What’s new: General Manager Dan Morgan expressed optimism about Young's growth during his first season.

"Bryce has shown flashes of greatness... just as a team we weren't as consistent as we want to be," Morgan noted, indicating that while Young displayed potential, collective team performance lagged behind.
Young tied for the NFL lead with six game-winning drives this season, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.

By the numbers: Despite his struggles, Young's statistics reveal a mix of promise and pitfalls.

He achieved a career-high passer rating of 147.1 against the Los Angeles Rams but also posted a low Total QBR of 14.2 against the San Francisco 49ers.
Young finished the season ranked 22nd among qualified quarterbacks with a QBR of 47.7, underscoring the need for improvement in consistency.

Yes, but: Challenges remain for the Panthers as they build around Young.

The offensive line took a hit with Ickey Ekwonu's ruptured patellar tendon, complicating the protection scheme and potentially stalling Young's development.
While Andy Dalton provides veteran depth, the expectation remains that Young will evolve into a franchise quarterback capable of leading the team back to playoff contention.

What’s next: As the Panthers continue to refine their roster, discussions about Young's supporting cast are ongoing.

Morgan emphasized the importance of maintaining open communication regarding potential additions or changes to the team's structure, suggesting a proactive approach in the offseason.
With key free agents like running back Rico Dowdle, who led the team in rushing yards last season, the Panthers face decisions that will impact their offensive strategy moving forward.

The bottom line: The Panthers’ commitment to Bryce Young reflects both a belief in his talent and recognition of the work ahead.

With a foundation set through the fifth-year option, the organization aims to provide Young with the necessary support to flourish in a league that increasingly values quarterback versatility and resilience.

Panthers to exercise Young’s fifth-year option, GM Morgan praises QB's potential

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 13, 2026

The Carolina Panthers are committed to quarterback Bryce Young, opting to exercise his fifth-year contract option, which guarantees him $26.5 million through 2027.

Why it matters: This decision reflects the franchise's long-term faith in Young’s potential despite a rookie season marked by inconsistency and challenges.

By securing Young for an extended period, the Panthers signal their intent to develop him further as the centerpiece of their offense.

The choice to exercise the option is also strategic, allowing the team to evaluate Young while planning for future roster moves.

What’s new: General Manager Dan Morgan expressed optimism about Young's growth during his first season.

"Bryce has shown flashes of greatness... just as a team we weren't as consistent as we want to be," Morgan noted, indicating that while Young displayed potential, collective team performance lagged behind.

Young tied for the NFL lead with six game-winning drives this season, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.

By the numbers: Despite his struggles, Young's statistics reveal a mix of promise and pitfalls.

He achieved a career-high passer rating of 147.1 against the Los Angeles Rams but also posted a low Total QBR of 14.2 against the San Francisco 49ers.

Young finished the season ranked 22nd among qualified quarterbacks with a QBR of 47.7, underscoring the need for improvement in consistency.

Yes, but: Challenges remain for the Panthers as they build around Young.

The offensive line took a hit with Ickey Ekwonu's ruptured patellar tendon, complicating the protection scheme and potentially stalling Young's development.

While Andy Dalton provides veteran depth, the expectation remains that Young will evolve into a franchise quarterback capable of leading the team back to playoff contention.

What’s next: As the Panthers continue to refine their roster, discussions about Young's supporting cast are ongoing.

Morgan emphasized the importance of maintaining open communication regarding potential additions or changes to the team's structure, suggesting a proactive approach in the offseason.

With key free agents like running back Rico Dowdle, who led the team in rushing yards last season, the Panthers face decisions that will impact their offensive strategy moving forward.

The bottom line: The Panthers’ commitment to Bryce Young reflects both a belief in his talent and recognition of the work ahead.

With a foundation set through the fifth-year option, the organization aims to provide Young with the necessary support to flourish in a league that increasingly values quarterback versatility and resilience.