Panthers to Exercise Fifth-Year Option on QB Bryce Young

Jeremy Fowler reports that the Carolina Panthers are set to exercise the fifth-year option on quarterback Bryce Young. This option is valued at approximately $26.5 million and guarantees his contract through 2027. However, the franchise is seeking more consistency from Young after a season that saw him exceed 200 passing yards in only three games.

Panthers’ Commitment to Bryce Young

ESPN’s Dan Graziano has reported on the Panthers’ outlook regarding Young’s future. The team remains supportive, attributing some of Young’s inconsistencies to challenges such as a young receiving corps and a struggling offensive line. This variability complicates assessments of Young’s long-term potential with the franchise.

Fifth-Year Option Details

• The fifth-year option for 2027 is projected to be fully guaranteed at $26.527 million.
• This salary would place Young 20th among quarterbacks in average annual salary.
• While this is a significant commitment, it is considered a bargain if Young proves to be a reliable starter.

Future Outlook for Bryce Young

Though eligible for an extension, Fowler does not foresee the Panthers rushing to secure a long-term deal for Young in the near future. Carolina has identified 2026 as a pivotal year to enhance their performance after enduring a multi-year rebuilding phase. Exercising Young’s option allows the team to assess his development before making any major financial commitments.

Young’s Background

At 24 years old, Young was a two-year starter at the University of Alabama and earned the Heisman Trophy in 2021. He was selected as the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft by the Panthers, signing a four-year rookie contract valued at $37,955,074, which included a $24.6 million signing bonus. As of 2025, Young has played in 15 games, achieving a completion rate of 63.2 percent with 2,745 passing yards, 21 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. Additionally, he has rushed for 217 yards and two touchdowns across 52 attempts.

El-Balad will continue to provide updates on Young’s status and the Panthers’ decisions as new information emerges.