The Carolina Panthers are looking to fill their backup quarterback position, a need that has risen in importance following Bryce Young's impressive second half of the season. The team is reviewing various candidates from the open market, considering their fit alongside their starting QB. Their top choice appears to be Andy Dalton, who has established a solid rapport with Young and the coaching staff, making him a logical and familiar option for a seamless transition.

Other potential candidates include Taylor Heinicke, a veteran with prior ties to the Panthers, and Trey Lance, a former first-round pick who is seen as a project in need of development. Justin Fields is a tempting option as a dual-threat quarterback, and Jacoby Brissett could provide stability given his experience.

With competition heating up, the Panthers have several intriguing choices, but it remains to be seen who will ultimately fill the role.

The NFL quarterback landscape is shifting as teams prepare for the 2025 season, with several notable names potentially changing addresses. With a limited draft class, teams are more likely to turn to free agency or trades to fill their quarterback needs. Key players on the move include Jacoby Brissett, who may return to Miami as a backup to Tua Tagovailoa, and Kirk Cousins, who could find himself in Cleveland amidst a tumultuous situation with Deshaun Watson. Similarly, Andy Dalton is eyed for a bridge role in Tennessee, while Sam Darnold's best fit appears to be with the New York Giants. Veteran Joe Flacco may circle back to Cleveland to provide mentorship. Other quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson face uncertain futures, with the potential for trades or re-signing with current teams.

Veteran quarterback Andy Dalton is currently a free agent after spending the last two seasons with the Carolina Panthers. Dalton has become a journeyman in the league, stepping into a mentoring role for young quarterbacks, most notably helping Bryce Young develop during the 2024 season.

As he prepares to explore the market, several teams are likely to show interest in Dalton due to his proven ability as a reliable backup and occasional starter. His previous average annual value was around $5 million, but a bidding war could push his next contract to approximately $10 million.

The Panthers face budget constraints with less than $30 million in salary cap space for 2025 and may prioritize defensive upgrades over re-signing Dalton. His familiarity with the team and Young could hold value, but the franchise might seek a more economical backup option.

MIAMI GARDENS — The Miami Dolphins' decision-making regarding their backup quarterback remains under scrutiny following Tua Tagovailoa's concussion in the second game of the season. Coach Mike McDaniel and GM Chris Grier are facing criticism for their inability to adequately prepare for this situation, leading to a lack of confidence in their ability to resolve the backup quarterback dilemma in 2025.

Past attempts to find a suitable backup have failed, including a competition between Skylar Thompson and Mike White, neither of whom proved capable. As McDaniel and Grier approach the upcoming offseason, fans are advocating for a veteran with starting experience rather than relying on untested rookies.

Bryce Young's progression as the Carolina Panthers' starting quarterback has taken a significant turn after a rocky start to the 2024 NFL season. By the end of the campaign, he showcased his potential, especially in the latter half where he avoided interceptions in his last three games. However, the uncertainty surrounding his long-term standing with the franchise lingers, partly due to coaching changes and a shaky beginning.

Despite finishing strong, analysts suggest that Young may find himself in a precarious position going into the 2025 season. Coach Dave Canales' reluctance to fully commit to Young as the starter raises questions about his future, especially since he was previously benched during early struggles. This skepticism could lead to a quick hook if Young's performance dips.