Panthers' Bryce Young dishes on fourth play-caller in four NFL seasons
Carolina's franchise quarterback remains optimistic about working with OC Brad Idzik in 2026.
Panthers' Bryce Young dishes on fourth play-caller in four NFL seasons originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young has heard a lot of NFL voices in his head.
As an overwhelmed rookie, Young initially listened to former coach Frank Reich and offensive coordinator/interim coach Thomas Brown . Both served as playcallers during an uncomfortable 2-15 campaign. lowlighted by Young absorbing 62 sacks in 16 starts.
The past two seasons, coach Dave Canales called the plays, initially focusing on establishing the run through a short, quick passing attack. Last season, though, Young proved he could effectively throw the ball downfield and the second-year coach started deploying receiving routes outside the hash marks. On 20-plus yard throws, Young ranked first in passing grade (99.
7 percent) and big-time throw rate (38. 9 percent), according to PFF . Entering 2026, Young remains secure with a fifth season and the prospect of long-term contract extensions, likely in the $50 million-per-year range .