Panthers Face Quarterback Crossroads: It’s Time to Move On From Bryce Young
CHARLOTTE, N.C. - The Carolina Panthers are nearing a critical juncture with quarterback Bryce Young, and team leadership must seriously consider drafting a replacement, according to mounting statistical evidence and a clear path forward via upcoming NFL Draft capital. Despite entering the league with high expectations as the No. 1 overall pick in 2023, Young has demonstrably struggled, prompting calls for a swift change in direction.
The Panthers invested meaningful draft assets to acquire the chance to select Young, trading multiple first-round picks to the Chicago Bears in both 2023 and 2024. Though, his performance has failed to justify the investment. Since joining the NFL, Young ranks 32nd of 32 qualifying quarterbacks (minimum 900 plays) in EPA + CPOE at 0.029. He also holds the league’s lowest success rate at 41.9% and a concerning EPA per play of -0.074. His EPA of 123.1 further underscores his struggles.
This situation demands immediate attention because the Panthers have assembled a promising coaching staff in Dave Canales and Ejiro Evero, and a core of young talent. To fully unlock their potential, the team needs a quarterback capable of elevating the offense. While acknowledging the substantial draft capital expended, Carolina is not financially burdened by a long-term, untradeable contract like those encumbering the Miami Dolphins (with Tua Tagovailoa) and the Arizona Cardinals (with kyler Murray). This financial flexibility provides a crucial advantage.
Looking ahead, the Panthers are well-positioned to address the quarterback position in the upcoming draft. Potential prospects include Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, Oregon’s Dante Moore, and alabama’s ty Simpson, among others. The team should be prepared to select a quarterback if a promising candidate is available, initiating a competition with Young in 2026 and perhaps handing the reins to the new signal-caller in 2027.
The Panthers’ future hinges on a decisive move at quarterback. The team has demonstrably improved, but continued reliance on Young risks squandering the potential of a talented roster and a capable coaching staff. It’s time for Carolina to prioritize a path toward sustained success, even if it means acknowledging a difficult but necessary reset at the most important position in football.
