The Carolina Panthers showed notable improvement in the second half of the 2024 season, a turnaround that coincided with quarterback Bryce Young’s impressive comeback after being reinserted into the starting lineup.
That shift was a major boost for the team. But the 2023 No. 1 overall pick isn’t interested in settling—he wants to keep raising the bar.
Things once looked bleak for Young. His rookie season shook his confidence, and after a rocky start to 2024, head coach Dave Canales made the bold move to bench the former Heisman Trophy winner. That decision sparked something in Young.
After reclaiming the starting job, Young started 10 games and led the Panthers to a 4-6 record. During that stretch, he completed 61.2% of his passes for 2,104 yards with 15 touchdowns and just six interceptions. He also ran for 223 yards and five touchdowns.
More important than the numbers was the change in Young’s demeanor. He regained his poise, confidence, and leadership. No longer hesitant, he played with conviction, trusted his offensive line, and inspired his teammates to rally around him.
Young transformed from a possible bust into a legitimate franchise quarterback. But he knows that progress means little unless it continues into next season.
Bryce Young wants the Panthers’ late-season momentum to turn into lasting success.
Young has made it clear: this league resets every year. The Panthers closed the season on a high note, but their 5-win campaign proves there’s plenty of work to be done. Still, he believes his team is up for the challenge.
“For me, it all resets year by year. We were able to finish strong, which is great, but we start next season 0-0. That doesn’t carry over,” Young said via Panthers.com. “We know we have to earn everything again. I’m focused on working even harder in the offseason, staying disciplined, building good habits, and being as consistent as possible. Thankfully, I’m part of a team that shares that mindset.”
His words reflect a young leader embracing responsibility. Coaches, fans, and teammates see Young as the kind of quarterback who can help the franchise reach new heights under David Tepper’s ownership. And he’s clearly ready to speak up and step in if the standard starts to slip.
This upcoming season is pivotal—it will be Year 3 of Young’s pro career. While Carolina will likely hold off on an extension for now, picking up his fifth-year option seems inevitable.
Young remains committed to growth, both for himself and his team. He sees Carolina’s recent organizational stability as an opportunity, especially in a wide-open division. With momentum on his side, he’s determined not to let it go to waste.