The Carolina Panthers are at a crossroads with quarterback Bryce Young, and the decision about his contract extension is stirring up quite the conversation. While some might be eager to lock in the young talent, NFL analyst Alex Kay suggests a more cautious approach.
According to Kay, the Panthers should adopt a "wait-and-see" strategy with Young. Sure, it might mean paying more down the road if Young hits his stride in Year 4, but the risk of committing to a potential draft bust could outweigh those savings.
Looking back at Young's 2025 season, he threw for 3,011 yards, notching 23 touchdowns against 11 interceptions. He also added 216 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns to his stats, leading the Panthers to their first playoff appearance since 2017. Despite a tough loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the wild-card round, Young impressed with 264 passing yards, a passing touchdown, and a rushing touchdown in his postseason debut.
Young is set to earn $12.1 million next season, with a fifth-year option looming at a guaranteed $25.9 million. His career stats with Carolina include 8,291 passing yards, 49 touchdowns, 30 interceptions, and 718 rushing yards with eight scores on the ground. However, his 14-30-0 record as a starter raises questions about consistency.
Brandt Tilis, Carolina's VP of football operations, confirmed that no extension talks have occurred with Young's camp. "Nothing's changed," Tilis remarked. "We're still evaluating and excited about what Bryce brings to the table."
For now, it seems the Panthers are holding off on any big contract moves. Young's potential is undeniable, but the consistency needed to secure a lucrative extension hasn't fully materialized yet. As the offseason unfolds, Panthers fans will be watching closely to see how this pivotal decision plays out.