The Carolina Panthers have taken a step forward in the future of their quarterback position.
They had to make a decision on Bryce Young's fifth-year option, and they announced their choice on Tuesday.
The Panthers have exercised that option, which impacts the 2027 season. They'll pay Young about $27 million that season.
Young will be in the final standard year of his rookie contract in 2026, then have that option year in 2027, so he's set for at least two more years in Carolina.
The Carolina #Panthers have announced that they will be picking up QB Bryce Young's 5th-year option for 2027, which we're projecting to cost around $27M.
— Spotrac (@spotrac) January 13, 2026
Young is now considered to be under contract at a fully guaranteed 2 years, $33M.
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The Panthers made this choice after squeaking into the playoffs as the 8-9 NFC South Division champions. They nearly upset the Los Angeles Rams before having their season ended over the weekend.
Young had been 6-22 as a starter in the NFL in his first two years after being the No. 1 overall pick out of Alabama in 2023.
This season, he made 16 starts and was 8-8.
He improved his completion percentage, touchdown-to-interception ratio, yards per attempt and quarterback rating this season, putting up career bests in all the categories.
Young isn't the biggest dude. He may still not be a true franchise quarterback. But for now, the Panthers are sticking with him.
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