The Carolina Panthers are investing in the future of their franchise, making bold moves to surround their young leader, Panthers QB Bryce Young, with the talent he needs to thrive. After a challenging season, Carolina’s front office is clearly focused on building a high-powered offense and turning things around in Charlotte.

Panthers QB Bryce Young: The Centerpiece of Carolina’s Rebuild

Since joining the league as the Panthers QB, Bryce Young has faced mounting pressure to deliver results. After flashes of brilliance late last year, the Panthers recognized that providing Young with reliable targets could be the key to unlocking his full potential. With a renewed sense of urgency, Carolina prioritized adding talent through the 2025 NFL Draft and free agency.

2025 NFL Draft: Giving the Panthers QB More Playmakers

The 2025 NFL Draft saw the Panthers select Arizona's Tetairoa McMillan with the No. 8 overall pick. Experts agree that McMillan brings a rare combination of size, athleticism, and production to the Panthers’ receiving corps. In fact, ESPN’s full breakdown highlights how McMillan’s presence gives the Panthers QB a big target in the red zone—an area where Carolina has struggled recently.

But the front office didn’t stop there. Subsequent picks focused on improving both sides of the ball, demonstrating a commitment to team balance. Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen, two edge rushers, were brought in on Day 2 to bolster a young, aggressive defense. Meanwhile, the offense received more depth with running back Trevor Etienne and safety Lathan Ransom. Each selection reflects Carolina’s vision for developing a complete squad around their franchise quarterback.

The Role of Bryce Young in Draft Strategy

Sources indicate the Panthers QB played an important role in shaping the draft board. According to The Athletic, Bryce Young directly lobbied for McMillan, emphasizing his potential to elevate the passing game. Their bond dates back to high school games in California and offseason training sessions. Young’s endorsement carried weight with both GM Dan Morgan and coach Dave Canales, ultimately tilting the decision toward selecting McMillan.

Adding McMillan to the mix gives Young three young receivers—McMillan, Xavier Legette, and Jalen Coker—capable of growing with him. Panthers fans remember the criticism of earlier regimes for not surrounding former star Cam Newton with enough offensive talent. This time, Carolina is refusing to make the same mistake, providing their young QB with every opportunity to succeed.

NFC Rivals Take Notice of Panthers QB’s New Target

News of the Panthers’ draft strategy rippled across the league. When McMillan's name was called, not everyone was pleased. Yahoo Sports reported that Cowboys star Micah Parsons was visibly upset, as Dallas had reportedly hoped to draft McMillan to pair with CeeDee Lamb. McMillan’s high ranking among draft scouts confirms the level of talent Carolina is bringing in to support its quarterback.

What’s Next for the Panthers QB and Offense?

With a retooled receiving corps, the Panthers QB is primed for a potential breakout season. Head coach Dave Canales and GM Dan Morgan have put together a young, dynamic offense that could surprise many in 2025. For fans and analysts alike, the biggest question is how quickly this group can gel on the field.

Carolina’s proactive offseason signals that the franchise is determined to build around its quarterback, giving him every chance to reach his ceiling. With McMillan’s elite catch radius and the endorsement of the Panthers QB himself, expectations are running high in Charlotte. The upcoming season will reveal whether these bold moves pay off and if Bryce Young can lead his team back to playoff contention.

To follow the Panthers’ progress and analyze each of their 2025 draft picks, check out ESPN’s full team-by-team coverage. Stay updated through The Athletic’s live draft tracker for insights, analysis, and scouting reports as the new era begins for the Panthers QB and his supporting cast.