It's time for Alabama Crimson Tide legend Bryce Young to prove he is the real deal.
Former Alabama Crimson Tide star Bryce Young certainly took a major step forward last season, leading the Carolina Panthers to a playoff appearance.
However, heading into 2026, Young is facing more pressure than ever.
Sure, Young's starting job is no longer on the line (at least not right now), but he has just two years remaining on his rookie contract.
The Panthers picked up Young's fifth-year option for 2027, so Young has through the following NFL season to prove himself.
But he should probably do it now.
Why? Because the 2027 NFL Draft class is slated to be rife with elite quarterback talent, and if Young gives Carolina any idea that he isn't the long-term answer this fall, the Panthers might finally make a move under center.
Carolina has given Young chance after chance, and last season, he somewhat delivered, throwing for 3,011 yards, 23 touchdowns and 11 interceptions while completing 63.6 percent of his passes. He also guided the Panthers to an NFC South division tittle.
The problem is that the Alabama product was still far too inconsistent in 2025 and had way too many moments that had everyone questioning whether or not he was actually a starting caliber NFL quarterback.
We know that Young was sensational at Tuscaloosa, particularly in 2021 when he racked up 4,872 yards and 47 touchdowns through the air on his way to a Heisman Trophy.
Unfortunately, that has not translated on to the professional level. Not yet, anyway.
Young is now entering a pivotal season in which there are expectations in Carolina. The Panthers are no longer bottom feeders. They are a decent ballclub that has provided Young with a fair amount of weapons. The defense has also improved.
Carolina is expected to compete for another division crown this fall, and as far as some are concerned, Young might be the only thing holding Dave Canales' squad back.
The former No. 1 overall pick has shown flashes. There is no doubt about that. But he must do it over the course of a full 17-game campaign in order to truly cement himself as the Panthers' solution under center.
If he doesn't continue his ascension in 2026, Carolina may very well find itself looking for another signal-caller next spring.
