Tepper Backs Bryce Young and Leaves Contract Talks to Panthers Front Office

Owner David Tepper’s rare public endorsement and Carolina’s decision to pick up Young’s fifth-year option keep team control through 2027 and make 2026 the decisive test for a long-term deal.

Overview

On Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026, Panthers owner David Tepper made a rare on-the-record appearance and said he still believes Bryce Young has the talent to lead the franchise to multiple Super Bowls.
Tepper declined to discuss a new contract and deferred negotiations to general manager Dan Morgan, signaling ownership support but leaving the financial decision to the front office.
Carolina exercised Young’s fifth-year option in the offseason, which keeps him under team control through the 2027 season and preserves Carolina’s leverage in future talks.
On the field, Young has shown late-game poise with 12 fourth-quarter or overtime game-winning drives over the past three seasons but has an uneven overall record (14-30 as a starter) despite a career-best 3,011 yards and 23 touchdowns last year.
The Panthers point to upgraded offensive weapons and improved depth — including Tetairoa McMillan, Jalen Coker and veteran tight end Darren Waller plus a 3-1 preseason — and say the 2026 regular season will determine whether a market-rate extension is warranted.