CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers may not be making an appearance in the playoffs, but they are optimistic about having discovered their franchise quarterback at last. This is particularly significant as general manager Dan Morgan is tasked with addressing glaring issues on a defense that experienced an unprecedentedly poor season.
Bryce Young concluded his second year with a strong performance, throwing 21 touchdowns — 15 through the air and six on the ground — over his last ten games. This includes an impressive showing in a nail-biting 44-38 overtime victory against the Atlanta Falcons, a game crucial for the Falcons’ playoff aspirations. Young’s journey this season has been one of perseverance, especially after being benched just two games in by first-year head coach Dave Canales. This move initially led to skepticism regarding the Panthers’ decision to trade up for the top pick in the 2023 NFL draft to acquire the Alabama quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner.
However, Young silenced his critics by regaining the trust of Canales and providing hope for a Panthers fan base long plagued by a playoff drought stretching seven years. “Without a doubt, Bryce is our starting quarterback for the future,” Canales affirmed when asked about Young’s readiness to be the team’s cornerstone player. “He has earned this opportunity. He fought for it.”
Tommy Tremble, a tight end for the Panthers, expressed no surprise in Young’s success. Tremble lauded Young for his determination and positive attitude while striving to improve his game throughout the season. “I have believed in him since he arrived, and now everyone else gets to witness what we’ve seen all along,” Tremble noted. “He finished the season on an incredibly high note, demonstrating elite quarterback skills.”
Young himself expressed gratitude for his chance to redeem himself after incumbent Andy Dalton suffered a thumb injury in a car accident on October 22, which opened the door for his return to the starting lineup. When probed about feelings of vindication, Young humbly remarked, “I wouldn’t call it vindication; I focus on controlling what I can and strive to be the best version of myself. I appreciate both the ups and downs of this journey, which has been a recurring theme this year.”
Meanwhile, Canales confirmed that Ejiro Evero will stay on as the defensive coordinator despite the team’s historically poor performance, which included allowing a record 534 points — the worst figure in 43 years in NFL history, surpassing the previous low set by the 1981 Baltimore Colts. The Panthers averaged 31.4 points against them per game, marking the sixth-worst record in the league’s annals.
“I know the sort of defense Ejiro can orchestrate, and I’m invested in that vision,” Canales stated. “It’s essential to enhance the talent we’ve acquired and genuinely assess our strategies.” However, Canales withheld comments about the status of the entire defensive staff.
Morgan acknowledged the need for improvement, saying, “I have faith in Ejiro and his approach, but I also have a responsibility to ensure that our roster is filled with strong players.” While the Panthers entered the season with challenging circumstances, including significant losses due to trades and injuries—such as losing top pass rusher Brian Burns and cornerback Donte Jackson, as well as linebacker Frankie Luvu in free agency—there is optimism about the recovery of Derrick Brown, who is expected back from a torn meniscus by the start of offseason activities.
The future of Shaq Thompson, however, remains uncertain after battling injuries that limited him to just six games in the last two seasons. As a key emotional leader for the Panthers, Thompson’s decade-long association with the team has made his potential departure a topic of concern.
Additionally, the Panthers are prioritizing the re-signing of cornerback Jaycee Horn, their only Pro Bowl player. Despite an injury-laden four-year career limiting him to 37 games, Horn has shown remarkable capability when healthy. The Panthers are anticipated to exercise his fifth-year option while seeking to finalize a long-term deal.
As the team enters the offseason, they face uncertainty regarding their specialists. Kicker Eddy Pineiro, punter Johnny Hekker, and long snapper J.J. Janson are all unrestricted free agents, posing a dilemma for management. Pineiro, at 88.1% accuracy, is amongst the top field goal kickers in NFL history but may attract considerable interest from other teams.
Concluding the season with a record of 5-12, the Panthers mark their sixth consecutive season with double-digit losses, resulting in the No. 8 overall pick in the upcoming draft.
