President of football operations and general manager Dan Morgan expects the Panthers to pick up the fifth-year option on quarterback Bryce Young before the deadline next month.
The No. 1 pick in the 2023 draft is on hold while No. 2 pick C.J. Stroud, No. 3 pick Will Anderson Jr., No. 5 pick Devon Witherspoon of the Seahawks and Falcons running back Bijan Robinson (8th overall) had the options for 2027 picked up. No. 4 pick Anthony Richardson (Colts) will not have his option exercised by the May 1 deadline.
“Obviously, the player’s not in the building yet. So, once Bryce gets in the building, and we’re busy with the draft, it’s offseason,” Morgan said of why Young’s option decision wasn’t made official yet. “So we’ll get that done as soon as he gets back in the building.”
Young’s fifth-year option could be a precursor to a long-term contract, Morgan said, pointing to Carolina taking the “long view” on his development. The fifth-year option would guarantee Young’s 2027 salary at $26.5 million.
Young had his best season as a pro in 2025, guiding the Panthers to their first NFC South division title in 10 seasons. He had a career-high 23 touchdown passes and threw for 3,011 yards.
The Panthers acquired the No. 1 pick from the Chicago Bears prior to the 2023 draft and before Morgan and head coach Dave Canales were in their current positions.
