For the first time in his NFL career, Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young is not required to learn a new system during the offseason. This stability allows him to focus on enhancing the team’s offense with subtle adjustments.
Young and Dave Canales, the offensive coordinator, discussed potential improvements for their successful offense from last season’s second half. They retained most of the key players from that period, including the entire offensive line, running back Chuba Hubbard, receivers Adam Thielen and Xavier Legette, and tight ends Ja’Tavion Sanders and Tommy Tremble. The team also added first-round wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan and veteran running back Rico Dowdle to strengthen their lineup.
“It’s subtle changes,” Canales stated after an OTA practice session when asked about this year’s offensive differences. “I think we have a great foundation of things. That was the first year, which was to get the core established… And then just some adjustments based on our skill.”
Building upon Young’s capabilities is crucial as he demonstrated significant growth by the end of last season. In his final three weeks, he recorded 10 touchdowns without interceptions and led game-winning or game-tying drives six times in nine weeks.
On Tuesday’s practice field, Young noted they were already incorporating new concepts not seen previously. Reflecting on his observations from Seattle tapes during Canales’ tenure there, Young expressed enthusiasm about adding more elements to their playbook.
“I think it’s just being able to build off of the foundation we laid last year,” Young said. “Around this time last year… we’re getting the basics… And now… let’s make sure that we’re more advanced…”
Canales highlighted how players like Legette and McMillan are bringing energy into practices while acknowledging Young’s continued momentum: “I feel like he’s still carrying that flame,” Legette remarked.
Young emphasized that retaining familiarity within their playbook has allowed them to focus on growth rather than learning anew: “It’s been great again just being able to start at a higher level now.”
Both Canales and Young seem committed towards evolving together alongside their teammates as they aim for success in upcoming games.
