The Carolina Panthers are seeing a glimmer of hope with Bryce Young, the former No. 1 overall pick, displaying improved performances at the end of the 2024 season.

While concerns arose about Young's potential as a franchise quarterback after a rocky start, his recent efforts suggest that he may have found his rhythm. To foster his growth, the Panthers must continue to invest in their roster, focusing on acquiring key players that can complement Young's development and enhance the team's overall performance.

The Carolina Panthers are poised for a turnaround following their seventh consecutive losing season, largely thanks to the promising performance of rookie quarterback Bryce Young. After struggling initially, Young showcased potential as a franchise quarterback by throwing ten touchdowns without any interceptions in the final three games of the 2024 season. This improvement comes alongside the addition of wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, the team's top draft pick, who is expected to provide Young with a reliable target as the Panthers look to bolster their offense.

While the offense sees some upgrades, the defensive unit remains a focal point, having finished last in the league in scoring defense. The Panthers invested heavily in their defense during the offseason, incorporating multiple veteran players and draft picks to enhance their depth. As the team prepares for the 2025 season, they have a better roster and a schedule that features fewer playoff teams, presenting a chance to finally break their playoff drought.

In a remarkable turnaround, Bryce Young's late-season performance in 2024 has set a new standard among NFL quarterbacks. No other player since 2000 has experienced such a stark increase in efficiency, marked by a significant jump in expected points added (EPA) per play during the final three games compared to their performance earlier in the season. Young concluded the season strongly, amassing 10 touchdowns without a single turnover, culminating in a fourth-highest EPA per play of 0.34 during that stretch.

This impressive finish followed a challenging start, where he ranked 30th in EPA per play with -0.16 over the first 14 games of the season. A pivotal moment occurred in Week 12 when he orchestrated a comeback against the Kansas City Chiefs, demonstrating his growth and potential as a franchise quarterback for the Carolina Panthers. Young's ability to transform his game and lead his team in crucial moments will be a focal point for fantasy football players as they assess his value heading into the next season.

As the NFL preseason approaches, the Carolina Panthers are generating renewed optimism among their fan base following several lean years. After a tumultuous rebuilding phase, they are poised to make a significant leap this season. Coach Dave Canales and young quarterback Bryce Young are leading a team that, despite finishing 2024 with a dismal 5-12 record, showcased promising signs of improvement. The Panthers demonstrated improved cohesion and teamwork, a refreshing contrast to their previous struggles. The roster's new additions aim to bolster this momentum, with expectations of competing in the NFC.