NFL free agency doesn’t officially begin until March 12, but teams can still re-sign their own players before that deadline. On Tuesday, the Carolina Panthers took advantage of this opportunity by securing quarterback on a new two-year contract.
“The Panthers retained a key free agent Tuesday, re-signing backup quarterback to a two-year deal,” wrote Darin Gantt of Panthers.com. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the contract is worth $8 million, with $6 million guaranteed and a maximum value of $10 million.
Andy Dalton, 37, has been with the Panthers for the past two seasons, primarily serving as Bryce Young’s backup while starting nine games. A three-time Pro Bowler, his veteran experience has been instrumental in mentoring Young, the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. “Me and Andy are super close,” Young said. “From the moment I arrived, being able to talk with him and get his perspective on situations I hadn’t experienced was invaluable. I was always leaning on him and having daily conversations.”
Before signing a two-year, $10 million deal with Carolina in 2023, Dalton played for four other teams—the Cincinnati Bengals, Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears, and New Orleans Saints. The 6-foot-2, 220-pound quarterback has accumulated 39,500 passing yards, 253 touchdowns, and 150 interceptions throughout his career.