Young faces critical evaluation year; OL play key to his long-term viability.

Bryce Young enters a critical Year 4 of his NFL career without an extension to his rookie contract; the No. 1 pick in the 2023 draft has responded well since being benched in his second season but hasn't played well enough to compel the Panthers to commit to a long-term extension. Offensive-line play will be key as the Panthers continue to evaluate Young's viability as their long-term answer at quarterback; the Panthers face a pivotal season coming off a division title (8-9 record, first playoff appearance since 2017).