One of the most pleasant surprises around the NFL so far this season is the play of Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young.
Through four games, Young has broken through to a previously unseen level of play that has him leading the league in passing yards going into the early bye week. He has performed exceptionally well in three of four starts, and his one off-game against Cleveland was understandable given the injuries that were going on around him.
The biggest reason for Young's progress may be the sharp play calling from offensive coordinator Brad Idzik. Jonathan Jones at The Athletic detailed some of the things Idzik is doing to help Young perform at his best:
The two have developed a strong rapport over the years. I’m told the communication
is constant throughout the week on what Young likes, what he doesn’t, what works and what might need another week of install before the decision of where to devote time and resources ahead of Saturday night... He, like so many others around the league, has gotten under center more often than in previous years. The dropback game helps balance the offense’s tendencies and run game, and Young likes the rhythm of it.
In addition to taking more downfield shots, Idzik has greatly helped Young navigate what's been the highest pressure rate allowed in the NFL this year. RPOs and safety valves have helped Young get the ball out far quicker than he did at any time between 2023 and 2025.
Young's traditional stats are solid, but he's also in the top 10 in many advanced categories, as well.
If they can keep this up for the rest of the season, Jones sees Idzik getting some interest for head-coach openings and Young potentially getting some Most Valuable Player buzz:
Idzik and Young are doing a great job keeping defenses off balance, and the partnership is paying early dividends. At Idzik’s pace, I won’t be surprised when multiple teams request to speak with him after the season for head-coaching opportunities. For Young, he has the foundation for an early MVP campaign.
While an MVP is a bit of a stretch, we are getting closer to assuming that Young will get a long-term contract extension at the end of the season—one that will cement him in as the Panthers' franchise guy.
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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: NFL insider says Bryce Young has 'foundation' for early MVP campaign
