Bryce Young’s Rising Game Draws Baker Mayfield Comparisons

In a surprising turnaround, Bryce Young has sparked comparisons to Baker Mayfield as the Carolina Panthers sit at a 3-3 record. Young’s performance, especially after a difficult rookie season, showcases a growing confidence reminiscent of Mayfield’s successful tenure with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This shift in perception comes as Young led the Panthers to a dramatic victory against the Dallas Cowboys, marking his second consecutive game-winning drive.

Young’s initial struggles during his rookie year, where he led the team to a disappointing 2-15 record, drew parallels to former Panthers quarterback Jimmy Clausen. However, recent performances have shown a different side of the young quarterback. In the previous game against Miami, Young executed a crucial fourth-down conversion that ultimately secured the win. His ability to handle pressure and deliver under challenging circumstances brings to mind the swashbuckling style of Mayfield, who has been instrumental in leading Tampa Bay to a notable 5-1 record this season.

Young’s latest victory against Dallas, which culminated in a field goal as time expired, highlights a significant growth in his decision-making and poise. Coach Dave Canales, who previously worked with Mayfield, noted the importance of belief and confidence in a quarterback’s performance. He stated, “The biggest similarity would just be belief. It’s the return to the sideline after a touchdown — or after an interception — and it’s the refocus.”

Despite his successes at home, Young faces challenges on the road, holding a staggering 1-15 record as a starter away from Charlotte. This statistic ties him for the worst record in NFL history for any quarterback over their first 16 road starts. The upcoming matchup against the New York Jets, who are currently winless at 0-6, presents an opportunity for Young to improve this dismal record.

Young’s journey follows a tumultuous path for the Panthers, who previously cycled through quarterbacks like Mayfield and Sam Darnold in 2022. The team’s struggles during that season were attributed to a lack of offensive creativity and a challenging environment for players to thrive. An insider noted that “the environment on the football side wasn’t set up for success, no matter how talented the players were.”

With Mayfield’s struggles largely due to turnovers and coaching issues in Carolina, he has since revitalized his career in Tampa Bay. His current standing as a contender for the 2025 NFL Most Valuable Player award, trailing only superstars Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes, underscores the potential Young could aspire to achieve if the Panthers avoid past mistakes.

As the Panthers navigate their season, the comparisons between Young and Mayfield serve as a reminder of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. While Young may not yet have the accolades of Mayfield, his recent performances suggest a promising future for the young quarterback. The key for the Panthers will be to foster his growth without repeating the missteps of previous years.