Panthers exercised QB Bryce Young’s fifth-year team option.

29 April 2026

This is purely a formality, as Panthers GM Dan Morgan said all the way back in January that the team would take Young’s option. The move keeps Young under contract through the 2027 season. He will make $26.5 million fully guaranteed that year. Carolina invested heavily in their offense via the draft this offseason. They took Georgia tackle Monroe Freeling in the first round and added a downfield threat for Young in the third round with Tennessee’s Chris Brazzell. Even though he’s under contract for two more years, 2026 is shaping up to be a make-or-break season for Young.