Bryce Young is widely projected by many to have a breakout season in 2025. The NFL schedule-makers gave the third-year Carolina Panthers quarterback a perfect launchpad to achieve this objective.
Fans were eagerly anticipating the schedule release on Wednesday evening. Information was leaked throughout the day, but Carolina's passionate supporters can now look forward to what could potentially be a more prosperous campaign.
Young's performance levels will make or break their chances. The No. 1 overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft bounced back exceptionally well after being benched by head coach Dave Canales. His confidence, swagger, and conviction returned. The Panthers are now building around the signal-caller, confident they've finally solved their complex riddle under center.
Nothing is guaranteed. Young's resurgence was positive over the second half of 2024, but it will count for nothing if he cannot build on this newfound momentum next time around.
Bryce Young and Carolina Panthers offense must capitalize on favorable early slate
Looking at the pass defenses on Carolina's schedule over the first few weeks, there is a significant opportunity for Young to hit the ground running.
- Week 1: Jaguars (257.4 passing yards per game conceded — 32nd)
- Week 2: Cardinals (216.1 — 16th)
- Week 3: Falcons (224.5 — 24th)
- Week 4: Patriots (211.5 — 11th)
- Week 5: Miami (210.7 — 10th)
- Week 6: Cowboys (218.1 — 18th)
None of these teams made the postseason in 2024. The Panthers won't see a playoff team from the previous campaign until Week 8. Young's already torched the Atlanta Falcons during Carolina's overtime victory to conclude the campaign. All signs are pointing up for a player who was all but written off when Canales took him out of the firing line.
All six teams will fancy their chances of improving, but the Panthers haven't exactly stood still either. They kept their dominant offensive line intact. They brought in Rico Dowdle and Trevor Etienne to solidify their running back room alongside Chuba Hubbard. Tetairoa McMillan, Jimmy Horn Jr., and potentially Hunter Renfrow could be useful additions to their wide receiver unit. Rookie tight end Mitchell Evans comes with instant potential if he transitions smoothly this summer.
Everything is in place for Young to succeed. If the former Alabama standout gets off to a strong start, confidence will increase. And the Panthers could be in line for their first winning season under David Tepper's ownership along the way.
What comes next is down to Young. He's not taking anything for granted and has been working exceptionally hard throughout the offseason to hone his craft. Hopefully, it'll have the desired effect, and his supporting cast meets their end of the bargain.
Opportunity knocks for Young. Capitalizing on some favorable matchups right out of the gate could change everything.