NFL veteran, previously identified as the top draft pick, poised for breakthrough performance following two tumultuous seasons?
In the latter part of the 2024 NFL season, Bryce Young, the quarterback for the Carolina Panthers, demonstrated a remarkable turnaround in his performance. After an early-season benching, Young returned to the starting lineup in Week 8 and went on to throw 7 touchdown passes with no interceptions over the final three games, adding three rushing touchdowns as well. This impressive run elevated him to QB8 rankings by week 12, making him a top fantasy sleeper heading into 2025.
Young's improvement was not without challenges. His sophomore season started rocky, leading to his coach Dave Canales benching him temporarily. However, Young handled the demotion maturely, maintaining leadership and earning respect from teammates and coaches. Upon his return, there was a noticeable increase in his composure, anticipation, and confidence on the field. Despite these gains, his overall season accuracy and completion percentages remained below league average, indicating room for further improvement.
Looking ahead to Year 3 in the NFL (2025 season), expectations are cautiously optimistic. The Panthers have bolstered Young’s supporting cast by drafting WR Tetairoa McMillan, projected to be a primary receiving target. Analysts highlight that if Young maintains his late-2024 form and receives adequate offensive support, he could solidify himself as a reliable starter and fantasy asset. However, challenges remain due to the Panthers’ generally weak roster beyond key additions, meaning Young’s continued development and surrounding improvements are crucial for a breakout.
In the 2025 NFL draft, the Panthers selected Arizona star wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan at No. 8 overall. As a rookie, Young threw for 2,877 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, with a 2-15 record and 62 sacks. Over his last 10 games in 2024, Young threw for 2,104 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions, with a passer rating of 88.9.
The Panthers hope to take another step in 2025, with the success of the team largely depending on Bryce Young. The team finished third in the NFC South in the previous year, winning only four of those matchups. However, the offensive stats were up across the board down the stretch, providing a glimmer of hope for the upcoming season.
The Panthers have made other significant moves to support Young and the team. They signed safety Tre'von Moehrig from the Las Vegas Raiders and gave cornerback Jaycee Horn a four-year, $100 million contract extension. Young expressed confidence in the team during a training camp news conference, expressing optimism for the upcoming season.
The Panthers' journey in 2025 will be an interesting one to watch, as they strive to build a more competitive offense around Young. With the addition of Tetairoa McMillan and the continued development of Young, fans and analysts alike are eager to see what the future holds for this promising young quarterback and the Carolina Panthers.
[1] Sports Illustrated
[2] ESPN
[3] USA Today
[4] CBS Sports
- The addition of Arizona star wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan to the Carolina Panthers could bolster Bryce Young's potential as a reliable American-football starter, making him an intriguing fantasy asset in the 2025 NFL season, according to analysts on Sports Illustrated, ESPN, USA Today, and CBS Sports.
- The 2025 NFL season could see Bryce Young of the Carolina Panthers strengthening his position in the National Football League, aiming to break out with his improved leadership, composure, and anticipated synergy with new teammate Tetairoa McMillan, as American-football enthusiasts at Sports Illustrated, ESPN, USA Today, and CBS Sports eagerly anticipate.
