Despite ending 5-12 in 2024, the Carolina Panthers are optimistic about the upcoming summer.
Despite the fact that the Panthers only won two of their last eight games, there were major “moral victories” in the fourth quarter of the season, which most NFL players and coaches refuse to acknowledge.
The Carolina Panthers’ biggest question was whether Bryce Young was the team’s future franchise quarterback — and now that the team is set for another top five pick in the NFL Draft, decision makers can look to add another weapon rather than looking for an answer under center.
After being benched two weeks into the season, Young gradually improved when he returned to the team’s starting lineup. He performed well against the Chiefs, Buccaneers, and Eagles, with the Panthers losing by one point or fewer in each of those games. All three of those teams will compete in the playoffs.
But the Panthers’ second-year quarterback had his best effort when it meant the most. Young led Carolina to a 44-38 overtime victory over the Atlanta Falcons, who were desperately trying to make the playoffs. Young ended the game 25-of-31 for 251 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions.
He added five more rushes for 24 yards and two scores using his legs.
It was by far his best performance of the season, and the Panthers can now build around him this offseason.
However, one of Young’s most reliable targets may not return for the 2025 NFL season.
Veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen recently completed his 12th season in the NFL and was questioned by media if he plans to return next season.
Thielen responded candidly, leaving plenty of space for speculation.
“I’m going to prioritize my family and take my mind off football,” Thielen stated on Monday. “Let me see how my body feels in two or three weeks, and then I’ll be extremely explicit about my intentions. It’s not a new idea this year; I’ve probably been thinking about it since year 10. Is it suitable for my family? Is it okay for me to keep playing? “Is it suitable for the team?”
Thielen stated that he will have a clear answer in two or three weeks, but there is a strong possibility that the Carolina Panthers wide receiver may retire.