CHARLOTTE, N.C. — On Tuesday, the Carolina Panthers made the decision to re-sign quarterback Andy Dalton for two more years, ensuring a reliable veteran presence to support Bryce Young as their starter as they look towards the 2025 season.
The 37-year-old Dalton had a productive stint last season, completing 989 passing yards while throwing seven touchdowns and six interceptions over five starts. Originally set to enter free agency next month, Dalton began his tenure with the Panthers in 2023, primarily serving as a backup to Young, who was the first overall pick in the same year.
Dalton’s playing time increased significantly in Week 3 of the last season after Young was benched by first-year head coach Dave Canales, following a disappointing start with the team at 0-2, having been outscored 73-13 in those games. Canales believed that Dalton provided the best chance for the team to secure a victory, a decision that led Dalton to shine in his first start, where he threw for 319 yards and three touchdowns in a 36-22 victory against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Despite starting strong, Dalton later experienced a string of losses, losing his next four games before being sidelined due to a sprained thumb from a car accident in Charlotte. This opened the door for Young to reclaim his starting role, which he maintained moving forward.
After enduring a loss against the Denver Broncos early on, Young found his rhythm, leading the Panthers to two consecutive wins and displaying noteworthy improvements throughout the remainder of the season. By the end of the season, Young posted a 4-6 record as a starter, hitting a career milestone in Week 18 with 251 passing yards and a combined five touchdowns in an exhilarating 44-38 overtime victory over the Atlanta Falcons. This performance solidified his position as the team’s starter heading into the offseason.
Throughout his NFL career, Dalton has accumulated impressive statistics, amassing 39,500 passing yards, 253 touchdowns, and 150 interceptions. After being drafted in the second round by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2011, he has played for five different teams over his 14-year career, earning three Pro Bowl selections along the way.
