Bryce Young’s transformation has reached a point where even Carolina Panthers royalty is making some lofty comparisons. After guiding Carolina into its Week 5 bye at 2-2, Young has earned praise from franchise legend Jonathan Stewart. He believes the Young's command and poise are beginning to resemble those of Peyton Manning. A massive payday could soon follow.
Stewart called Young the Panthers’ franchise quarterback and pointed to his pre-snap control, processing and pocket presence as Manning-like traits. The praise comes after Young has helped produce one of the NFL’s most dangerous passing attacks. He has totaled 1,268 yards, nine touchdowns, and only two interceptions through four games.
Stewart also believes Young could eventually command the kind of money reserved for the league’s elite quarterbacks. Asked whether Young could earn a contract comparable to the three-year, $55 million-per-year extension Baker Mayfield signed with Tampa Bay, Stewart did not hesitate.
Article Continues Below“Yeah, I can see it,” Stewart told RG. “If he continues to put up these numbers and be the reason why they have a shot to win every game, you got to pay him.”
Young has delivered that kind of impact despite Carolina losing key offensive pieces Jonathon Brooks and Xavier Legette to injuries. His signature performance came Sunday night against Detroit. That's when he threw for 329 yards without a turnover in a 32-26 victory.
Now in his fourth NFL season, Young appears increasingly comfortable in Dave Canales’ system. He has paired aggressive downfield throws with improved decision-making. If that trajectory continues, Stewart’s $55 million prediction may become less bold by the week.