As the Carolina Panthers gear up for the 2025 NFL season, optimism is cautiously building in Charlotte. But not everyone is sold on smooth sailing ahead — especially when it comes to Bryce Young. One prominent NFL analyst is warning that if Young falters, the Panthers’ entire season could unravel.
After a rocky rookie campaign in 2023 and modest improvement in 2024, Bryce Young enters 2025 with sky-high expectations. Armed with a revamped offensive line, new weapons in the passing game, and fresh coaching leadership under head coach Dave Canales, this year was supposed to be Young’s breakout. But according to NFL Network’s Dan Orlovsky, the Panthers may be one injury or regression away from a full-blown crisis.
“If Bryce doesn’t take a big step forward this year — or worse, if he regresses — the Panthers are in real trouble,” Orlovsky said during a recent segment. “This offense is being built around him. If he crumbles, so does their shot at relevance.”
The warning comes amid growing concerns about Young’s durability and pocket presence. Despite his high football IQ and accuracy, he took too many hits last season behind a shaky line, and struggled with consistency under pressure. Though offseason improvements have been made, the spotlight will remain firmly on him.
Carolina does have rookie tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders and a strong rushing attack to ease the load, but if Young can’t command the offense, those assets may go underutilized.
With the NFC South wide open, the Panthers have a chance to climb — but it all hinges on QB1.
Bryce Young has the tools. Now, the Panthers need the performance. Or risk watching 2025 spiral before it even begins.
