As training camp kicks off for the Carolina Panthers, there are plenty of storylines to keep track of.
Can free agent addition Jaelan Phillips reinvigorate their pass rush? How will rookie Monroe Freeling fare at right tackle with Taylor Moton out? Who will be starting at running back between Chuba Hubbard and Jonathon Brooks?
That being said, only one theme stands out above all the others. Once again, the development of starting quarterback Bryce Young is the top headline as he heads into his fourth season in the NFL.
Whether or not Young can earn himself a long-term contract worthy of a franchise passer has been named the No. 1 storyline for the Panthers at camp this year by ESPN. NFL Nation writes:
Does Bryce Young play himself into a new contract
this season? This is a pivotal season for the Panthers' fourth-year quarterback, who earned the full-time starting role last season after losing playing time to veteran Andy Dalton in 2024. Talks of a contract extension have appeared to be quiet regarding Young, the No. 1 pick in 2023. The Panthers have slowly improved in total offense since drafting Young, from last place in 2023 to 27th last year... But Young needs to show he can continue to elevate the unit if he wants a long-term contract extension next year.
Young looked brilliant at times during the 2025 campaign—particularly against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 6, the Atlanta Falcons in Week 11 and the Los Angeles Rams in Week 13. He'd almost get the Rams a second time in the playoffs, passing for a solid 264 yards with two touchdowns in what was nearly a massive upset.
He also threw for 155 passing yards or fewer seven times, and had under 200 in 12 starts. His 23-to-11 touchdown to interception ratio was respectable, but he did fumble seven times while his rushing totals dropped from 249 yards and six scores to just 216 yards and two touchdowns.
Putting more talent around him will definitely help, and if offensive coordinator Brad Idzik proves a more creative play-caller than head coach Dave Canales, it will also go a long way towards Young fulfilling his full potential.
However, the biggest jump forward has to come from Young himself.
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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: ESPN names Panthers' biggest 2026 training camp storyline
