It’s no secret that the Carolina Panthers finally saw the true potential of Bryce Young emerge during the latter half of the 2024 season. The young quarterback showed more poise, growing confidence, and the resilience needed to bounce back from early struggles. Now, the challenge is to build on that momentum and prove this turnaround is the foundation for long-term success.
Central to that progress is his developing relationship with head coach Dave Canales. At one point, their connection looked uncertain—especially after Canales benched Young just two games into his tenure, a move that sparked widespread debate. But in hindsight, it became the catalyst that reignited Young’s career.
Canales never gave up on Young. He pushed him, and that pressure sparked growth. Sometimes, creating a sense of urgency is exactly what a player needs to rise to the occasion—and that’s exactly what happened.
That was a crucial step forward, but what’s ahead is even more significant.
The Panthers’ Future Hinges on the Canales-Young Partnership
Carolina’s offseason strategy clearly reflects their commitment to building around Young, highlighting the trust he’s earned. Matt Verderame of Sports Illustrated gave much of the credit to Canales, especially after examining Young’s numbers more closely.
“[Bryce] Young wasn’t great in 2024, throwing for 2,403 yards and 15 touchdowns in 14 starts. However, a closer look is more revealing. Over his last seven games, Young passed for 1,583 yards and 11 scores with three interceptions. That’s a 17-game pace of 3,843 yards and 27 touchdown passes. That works. The biggest reason for this improvement? [Dave] Canales, who turned Baker Mayfield’s career around and might do the same for Young.”
The upcoming season is critical for Young, who enters his third year in the league and will be eligible for a contract extension afterward. While it’s too early to talk about a new deal, another leap forward could change that narrative quickly.
Young is carrying himself differently now—his teammates see it, the fans feel it, and Canales is counting on it. With a more stable offensive scheme in place, Young has the tools to thrive
Canales has built a strong reputation as a quarterback fixer, helping both Geno Smith and Baker Mayfield revive their careers. While there’s still a long road ahead for Young, he’s now firmly on the right track—a dramatic turnaround from where things once stood.
If the momentum continues to build between Young and Canales, the Panthers could be on the verge of something special.