Coach Canales Signals Confidence in Bryce Young’s Role as Carolina’s Franchise Quarterback

Head coach Dave Canales told Stephen A. Smith on the SiriusXM radio show that Young “is right now” the Panthers’ franchise quarterback. Canales highlighted Young’s composure, aggressiveness and timing, noting that the quarterback’s mindset continues to improve. While the tone was upbeat, Canales stopped short of guaranteeing Young’s tenure beyond the 2026 season.

Newsweek

In the 2025 campaign, Young completed 63.6 % of his passes for 3,011 yards, threw 23 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, and added 216 rushing yards with two rushing scores. Those figures marked a clear upgrade from his first two NFL seasons and helped Carolina reach the playoffs for the first time since 2017.

Newsweek

The Panthers exercised Young’s fifth-year option, extending his contract through the 2027 season. The 2026 season therefore arrives with a contract year on the line, giving Young a chance to negotiate a larger deal if he continues to improve. The team’s decision keeps him under contract while the market value of a quarterback who can deliver a playoff berth remains a key consideration.

Newsweek

The organization’s public actions—exercising the fifth-year option and retaining Young through 2027—signal confidence in his development trajectory. Canales’ remarks reinforce that confidence, emphasizing daily improvement and the “right direction” of Young’s play without committing to a long-term guarantee beyond the current contract window.

Newsweek

• “Whether we're up or down, I love having Bryce out there,” — Dave Canales, to head coach — Dave Canales, to head coach

Newsweek