If there’s one position that carries the most pressure to perform in the NFL, it’s quarterback. Especially when the player is either the No. 1 overall pick or signs a massive free-agent contract.

The Carolina Panthers selected Bryce Young with the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. While he has shown steady improvement, not everyone is convinced. One national analyst has already placed Young on bust watch entering the 2026 season.

MORE: Kevin O’Connell explains what is needed from winner of Vikings QB competition

Bleacher Report recently identified one player from every NFL team who could be considered on bust watch. Young unfortunately made the list.

“The 24-year-old signal-caller made strides in the previous season, but the Panthers still finished 26th in total passing yards for the term. Young will likely need to show that he can be a productive, high-volume passer when necessary this year, and that seems unlikely because of a tough schedule,” Moe Moton of BR NFL said.

“The Panthers won the NFC South with a sub-.500 record on a third-place schedule last year. In 2026, they will play on a first-place schedule that includes games against the Chicago Bears, Philadelphia Eagles, Denver Broncos and the Seattle Seahawks. Young could regress as he faces more division leaders this year than last season.”

MORE: Paris Johnson Jr. reveals $40M goal as Arizona Cardinals extension looms

Bryce Young on bust watch?

Young struggled early in his career and was benched during his second NFL season before showing significant improvement. Even so, when compared to peers such as Caleb Williams, C.J. Stroud, and Trevor Lawrence, his production still leaves plenty to be desired.

It also doesn’t help that the Panthers paid a steep price to acquire him. Carolina traded two first-round picks, two second-round picks, and star wide receiver DJ Moore to the Chicago Bears. All to move up and select Young.

At some point, Young’s performance will need to resemble that of his successful young peers, or the Panthers could begin considering other options. The organization has already tabled extension talks for this year.

Young delivered the best season of his career in 2025, throwing for 3,011 yards and 23 touchdowns while leading the Panthers to a career-high eight wins as a starter.

Even so, those numbers still don’t match the expectations that come with being the No. 1 overall pick. The question now is whether Young can continue building on his progress in 2026.