ESPN NFL analyst Dan Orlovsky has voiced strong support for Bryce Young, predicting a significant breakout for the Carolina Panthers’ quarterback in the 2025 season. After a challenging rookie year followed by an inconsistent sophomore campaign, Orlovsky’s endorsement provides renewed optimism for the No. 1 overall pick’s future.
Orlovsky Highlights Young’s Development and Improved Team Dynamics
Orlovsky, a former NFL quarterback known for his detailed analysis, points to the progress Young made at the end of last season as a key indicator of growth. Speaking on The Pat McAfee Show, he expressed confidence in Young’s potential rise to prominence.
If I had to bet on one, it would be Bryce,
Orlovsky said during the interview.
I just think what he went through last year and not breaking… and then the success he had at the end of the season, it says a lot.
Orlovsky’s confidence is heavily influenced by the substantial improvements made around Young this offseason. Notably, he praised the Panthers’ addition of first-round wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, a 6-foot-4 athlete from Arizona known for his physicality, which complements existing receiver Xavier Legette.
I love the Tet McMillan addition.
Orlovsky highlighted the challenge the duo poses for opposing defenses by pointing to their size and physical presence.
These personnel upgrades, alongside enhancements to the offensive line and a more consistent offensive approach under head coach Dave Canales, have led Orlovsky to compare the Panthers’ evolving offense to the 2019 Tennessee Titans. That squad featured dominant, big-bodied receivers like A.J. Brown and Corey Davis who elevated their quarterback’s performance through sheer physical dominance.
Head Coach Dave Canales Seen as a Key Factor in Unlocking Young’s Potential
Orlovsky also emphasized the importance of the Panthers’ head coach in Young’s future success. He believes Dave Canales could be the pivotal force that helps Young fully realize his abilities.
Canales is a really good coach,
Orlovsky said.
We’ve got three different places where he’s gone and been their coach, and he’s had success.
Canales played a crucial role in revitalizing the careers of quarterbacks Geno Smith in Seattle and Baker Mayfield in Tampa Bay. Now with Carolina, Canales faces the challenge of guiding Young’s development amid a more supportive team environment.
Contextualizing Young’s Early Career and Expectations for Growth
Young’s rookie performance resulted in 2,877 passing yards with 11 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. While those numbers were modest, Orlovsky stresses the importance of context, noting that Young often faced heavy pressure due to a struggling offensive line.
Throughout his sophomore season, Young showed marked improvement, displaying resilience and enhanced command during the latter half of the year. Orlovsky believes these signs forecast a promising leap forward in his third NFL season.
Bryce was the number one pick not because he wasn’t talented,
Orlovsky explained.
He just went through some tough times his rookie year. I think Bryce is on the board to take a really big jump.
This analysis offers hope to Panthers fans, as it goes beyond simple optimism and reflects tangible progress observed on the field and in team dynamics.
Supporting Cast and Team Changes Built to Elevate Young
The Panthers’ strategic offseason moves like the selection of Tetairoa McMillan aim to bolster Young’s weapons at wide receiver. Alongside McMillan and Xavier Legette, the team’s reinforced offensive line and coordinated scheme under Canales provide Young with a stronger foundation than in previous years.
These changes suggest Carolina is positioning itself to capitalize on Young’s talent and finally see the full potential that warranted his top draft selection.