Pro Football Focus has shared a reason why the Carolina Panthers might not reach the playoffs in the near future, despite few predictions suggesting they will in the 2024 season. The outlet released a list detailing why each NFC team may fall short of the big NFL games. For the Panthers, they highlighted that Bryce Young’s performance in his second year will play a critical role in the team’s success. If Young doesn’t show improvement, the Panthers may struggle to compete when the stakes are high. Pro Football Focus pointed out that Young’s mediocre grade last season, coupled with issues like poor protection from the offensive line, lack of production from pass catchers, and coaching problems, could hinder the team’s chances. While Young may shoulder much of the blame if the Panthers miss the postseason, other factors will also contribute to their potential downfall.
While Young had a disappointing rookie season, it wasn’t entirely his fault, as any rookie quarterback would have struggled in that situation. With changes in the front office, the addition of a quarterback whisperer, improvements in the offensive line, and the drafting of a top wide receiver, if Carolina misses the playoffs, it would be due to multiple failures in the system, not just Young’s. It may be easy to blame Young for everything, especially compared to players like C.J. Stroud who found immediate success. But it’s important to consider the context of Young’s challenges and apply that same understanding moving forward.
