Bryce Young's momentum gives Panthers reason for optimism in 2026

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It's taken a while, but Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young may finally be showing why he was the No. 1 overall draft pick three years ago.

Young's ascension began when he returned to the starting lineup in the middle of the 2024 season, finishing that campaign on a positive note and with positive trajectory. And although his 2025 was a tad up and down, his clutch gene shined through while leading the Panthers to their first playoff appearance since 2017 and their first NFC South title since 2015.

Heading into 2026, Young has been named Carolina's biggest reason for optimism by Josh Petry at Touchdown Wire. Petry writes:

Not too long ago, a ton of questions surrounded Bryce Young at QB; now the conversation is very different... It is time for the training wheels to come off. They beat the Rams during the regular season and lost to them 34-31 in the Wild-Card round. Being in a game with a team like the Rams gives hope for the future. As the Panthers continue to build around Bryce Young, he should keep improving and maintain his newfound momentum as an NFL QB.

If Young picks up where he left off last season, then Carolina is going to be far more dangerous than most analysts seem to think. But consistency will be key, as the 24-year-old's production has left a bit to be desired.

To take the Panthers to the next level, Young may have to up his numbers. Of his 45 career starts, including the postseason, he's thrown for at least 250 yards only eight times.

Young might be in line for a new long-term deal at the end of this season. That could come to fruition if his momentum keeps rolling.

Follow @ThePanthersWire on Twitter/X for more Panthers content.

This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Bryce Young's momentum gives Panthers reason for optimism in 2026

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