The Carolina Panthers may have endured a rocky campaign, but the final stretch of the season gave fans a reason to believe—and all of it centered on Bryce Young. After a season filled with growing pains, offensive line struggles, and coaching turnover, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft came alive down the stretch, showcasing the flashes of brilliance that had made him a college football legend. Now, as the Panthers prepare for the 2025 season, the question looms large: Can Young turn his late-season magic into a full-fledged breakout?
In his final five games, Young posted a dramatic improvement in completion percentage, passer rating, and most importantly—command. Gone was the hesitant rookie shuffling behind a porous offensive line. In his place stood a confident quarterback who extended plays, took calculated risks, and delivered strikes in high-pressure situations. Young’s chemistry with receivers like Jonathan Mingo and newly acquired veteran Darnell Mooney finally began to flourish, while his ability to manipulate the pocket drew comparisons to some of the game’s best.
It wasn’t just about the stats—it was the swagger, the leadership, the poise under pressure. In a thrilling comeback win against the Falcons in Week 16, Young orchestrated a 78-yard game-winning drive with under two minutes to play, capped by a perfectly placed touchdown to tight end Tommy Tremble. The drive didn’t just seal a win—it signaled that the Panthers finally had their quarterback of the future.
But now comes the real test. The NFL doesn’t hand out gold stars for potential. Bryce Young must prove he can do it across a full season. The Panthers’ front office has doubled down on their belief in him by revamping the offensive line, signing veteran guard Isaac Seumalo and drafting LSU tackle Tyree Andrews in the first round. The team also hired former 49ers assistant Mike LaFleur as offensive coordinator, hoping to install a system that plays to Young’s strengths: quick reads, mobility, and precision.
Carolina’s schedule won’t do them any favors. They open with three road games in four weeks and face a gauntlet of elite defenses early in the season. But Bryce Young is no stranger to adversity. From dominating the SEC to handling the crushing pressure of being a No. 1 pick on a rebuilding team, he’s faced it all—and come out stronger.
The Panthers’ fanbase, long-starved for a franchise quarterback since the departure of Cam Newton, is beginning to believe again. Young’s final stretch last season wasn’t just a statistical anomaly—it was a sign of growth, of resilience, of potential turning into production. He has the trust of the locker room, the full backing of the coaching staff, and the weapons to do damage.
Now, it’s time to put it all together. The real test begins in Week 1, and all eyes will be on Bryce Young. If he delivers, the Panthers could go from rebuilding to contending faster than anyone expected. One thing is certain—Carolina finally has hope, and that hope wears No. 9.