RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesThe Carolina Panthers enter the 2026 season fresh off a NFC South title, their first in over a decade. But even so, there are some doubters of the Panthers.
A 8-9 record and winning a tiebreaker to claim the division title will do that. However, it's up to Carolina to silence those doubters and prove they are the real deal.
As we get set for the upcoming season, the Panthers are playing the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL's Hall of Fame preseason game . It's an extra game for both teams, allowing each head coach to get an extra look and evaluation of the roster.
But one of the biggest storylines this season will surround quarterback Bryce Young . He's entering his fourth season and the team has picked up the fifth-year option. They have not agreed to a long-term contract, which is something Young needs to prove.
Young isn't playing in the Hall of Fame Game but he did catch up with NBC analyst and former head coach Mike Tomlin. The two discussed Young's mindset entering the critical year.
"I'm super excited. I'm grateful," Young said. "Another year, grateful for all the opportunities it brings, all the challenges. I'm grateful to be a part of this group," Young said. "Still in training camp. It's our first opportunity to put our foot forward for this year.
"I think every year you have to make sure you're learning your new team. I'm grateful to have a lot of guys that I've been around for a while now, have that rapport build in. Year in and year out you have to make sure you're learning the new guys, the guys who are coming in. I'm comfortable being in the building with the franchise, with all the guys I've been around. Making sure the guys coming in know the standard and know what we stand for. And continuing to push."
It's no secret this is a very important year for Young. Not only do the Panthers need him to show he can be a leader but he needs to take a big step forward in his development.
If that happens, then it's the best case scenario for both sides.
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