Panthers Coach Canales Backs Bryce Young as Franchise QB

Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales has publicly endorsed quarterback Bryce Young as the team's current franchise quarterback, while the organization's front office maintains it is not yet ready to discuss a long-term contract extension. The comments, made during a recent interview, come as Young enters the final year of his rookie deal and seeks to build on a breakout 2025 season.

Canales expressed strong confidence in Young during an appearance on Stephen A. Smith's show. When asked if Young is the franchise quarterback, Canales responded, "He is right now." He added, "He's our guy, and I love the trajectory that he's on." Canales praised Young's growth in offensive operations and his performance in critical moments, stating, "I love having Bryce out there. I love that he stays cool, calm, and collected and aggressive, and he attacks at the right time."

The coach's support is rooted in Young's significant improvement last season. After a difficult start to his NFL career, which included being benched in 2024, Young led the Panthers to an 8-8 record, a division title, and their first playoff appearance since 2017. He set career highs with 3,011 passing yards and 23...