The Carolina Panthers continue prep for the 2026 NFL season, one that has high expectations for the franchise.

Following an NFC South title in 2025, the Panthers are hoping that they can take the next step in 2026. Under Dave Canales, the Panthers have improved but there are still some big question marks.

Winning the division is a tough task, and we don't want to downplay that, but they very easily could have finished second or third too. But here in 2026 if the Panthers want to take that next step, the play of quarterback Bryce Young is going to be key. 

And it's going to be a big factor in terms of the Panthers' long-term plan for him. 

The Panthers exercised the option on Young's rookie deal, keeping him under contract through the 2027 season. However, they need to make a decision in terms of his long-term future here in Carolina and whether or not he deserves a new deal. 

One NFL reporter is comparing his situation to another quarterback in the NFC South.

Albert Breer discussed the Bryce Young contract situation and offered his take on it in terms of what he expects. 

"As for Bryce Young, this feels to me a little bit like Baker Mayfield in Cleveland," Breer said. "You got to 2020, they make the playoffs, they win a playoff game for the first time in forever. Baker Mayfield riding high, he winds up playing out his fourth year in 2021, got nicked up. We sort of found out the truth there; the Browns were looking all along at leveling up. If he had played well, maybe that would have played out differently.  That to me would be the comp."

"I still think with the Panthers holding that fifth-year option for 2027, there’s still some wait and see here as far as where they are on him. Whether or not they’re willing to give a top of the market deal.”

While Young did improve last season, he needs to show it again in 2026. The numbers were fine but they weren't great compared to the top of the league.

That's not to say Young can't improve and be a franchise quarterback. But you have to be careful when giving out these types of deals to quarterbacks or it could set you back in the wrong way.