Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young has been named a 'guaranteed riser' for the 2025 season by NFL.com analyst Marc Ross. After returning to the starting lineup in Week 8 of the 2024 season, Young displayed remarkable growth, throwing for 2,104 yards, 15 touchdowns, and only six interceptions over the last ten games. His confidence surged as he led game-tying or winning drives in six of those games.

This offseason, the Panthers bolstered their roster by drafting wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan with the eighth overall pick. Alongside veteran Adam Thielen and potential breakout candidate Xavier Legette, Young's supporting cast has never looked better. Additionally, the Panthers' rushing attack strengthened with the addition of Rico Dowdle, promising to enhance their offensive capabilities. With these improvements, Young's 2025 season is poised to be his best yet.

The Carolina Panthers’ star power meets the Savannah Bananas’ whirlwind entertainment at Bank of America Stadium, showcasing a thrilling blend of sports and spectacle. Over two nights, 148,000 fans witnessed record-breaking performances, including All-Pro linebacker Luke Kuechly throwing out the first pitch after extensive warming up. Former players Greg Olsen and Jonathan Stewart added their flair, with Stewart diving into the crowd in typical J-Stew fashion. Current players like quarterback Andy Dalton and wide receiver Adam Thielen further engaged fans with interactive games, proving that Charlotte's passion for sports is electric.

Beyond the fun, the event resonated personally with many attendees. Local player Eric Jones Jr. expressed how meaningful it was to play in front of his beloved team’s fans, recalling shared memories of past Panthers’ playoff runs. The excitement captured by this collaboration highlights the community's desire for more sports entertainment, cementing Charlotte as a vibrant sports town.

The NFL offseason has shifted into minicamp phase as teams prepare for the 2025 season. The Carolina Panthers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are among those wrestling with crowded receiver rooms, necessitating tough decisions on roster cuts or trades.

In particular, the Panthers have acquired talented playmakers like Tetairoa McMillan, leaving Adam Thielen, Xavier Legette, and Jalen Coker vying for spots. Moreover, other teams are facing pivotal questions: the Ravens' secondary overhaul, the Bills' defensive upgrades, and the uncertain quarterback situation across franchises.

This week's Chiefs Wire Podcast highlights an engaging interview with Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen, reflecting on his journey and insights into NFL talent. Thielen, known for his exceptional skills on the field and love for golf, shared his thoughts on Patrick Mahomes' athleticism and the camaraderie among players during the offseason. Having recorded 48 catches for 615 yards and five touchdowns last season, he remains a key player for the Panthers amidst their ongoing rebuild under rookie quarterback Bryce Young.

Louis Riddick's recent spotlight on Jimmy Horn Jr., a sixth-round pick for the Carolina Panthers, has injected fresh optimism into the team's struggling offense. The rookie wide receiver, originally from Colorado, possesses speed and versatility that could make him a valuable asset alongside established players like Adam Thielen and rising stars like Xavier Legette. Given the uncertainties in Carolina's receiving corps, Horn's game-breaking potential might just provide the spark the Panthers need to elevate their 29th-ranked offense from last season.

Horn averaged 10.5 yards per catch in college, showing flashes of brilliance despite limited opportunities. His agility in the slot could complement Bryce Young's play style, particularly as the team leans more into run-pass option plays under head coach Dave Canales. Riddick’s endorsement of Horn signals that he could emerge as a key contributor for the Panthers as they look to rebuild and reshape their aerial attack.