Jason Burgos
The Carolina Panthers avoided some notable NFL training camp drama Friday and inked their new franchise quarterback Bryce Young to his rookie contract.
There have been several noteworthy potential camp holdout storylines making headlines around the league. Pro Bowl running backs Saquon Barkley and Josh Jacobs could not agree on a long-term deal and are still pondering if they want to play on their franchise tags. While Dallas Cowboys legend Zack Martin is not happy with his current deal and is pondering missing summer practices.
However, one under-the-radar holdout storyline was over if top overall NFL Draft pick Bryce Young would be available during the first days and weeks of Carolina Panthers training camp. The one-time Heisman Trophy winner had not yet signed his first contract in the league and there were some wondering if that could become an ongoing problem for the franchise in the weeks ahead.
Carolina Panthers schedule start: Aug. 12 vs. New York Jets (preseason)
Well, all those worries and concerns were put to rest when ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that “Bryce Young and the Panthers reached an agreement on a four-year, fully-guaranteed, $37.9 million contract” on Friday afternoon.
Losing anytime in training camp would have been a big problem for the 21-year-old since he is likely to be the team’s starter in Week 1. Not only does he need to learn his first NFL offense — which is always a tall task for young QBs — but he also needs to develop chemistry with his teammates. Especially the veterans and free agents the organization signed in the offseason.
Earlier this week, one of the free agents — Pro Bowler Miles Sanders — had high praise for the “cocky” confidence and football IQ of his new quarterback. While all Carolina Panthers players won’t be together until next week, rookies must report for camp this Saturday.
