The Carolina Panthers signed Quarterback Andy Dalton to a two-year $8 million contract on Tuesday. Dalton’s deal reportedly includes $8 million guaranteed and can be worth up to $10 million. Dalton filled in admirably when 2023 No. 1 overall pick Quarterback Bryce Young was benched earlier in the season. The veteran had 7 touchdowns and 6 interceptions during the 2024-25 regular season.
Dalton will fill a critical position for the Carolina Panthers next season. He will mentor Young as the second-year quarterback looks to build upon a strong finish to the regular season. Dalton has years of experience as a starting quarterback in the National Football League. That wealth of experience is invaluable to Young as he enters his third season as a starting quarterback. How will the team fare next season?
Carolina Panthers Offseason Outlook
Panthers and Andy Dalton reached agreement on a two-year, $8 million deal that includes $6 million guaranteed and has a max value of $10 million, per source. Panthers QB Bryce Young has developed a close relationship with Dalton, and now the two continue to get to work together. pic.twitter.com/dAT56TXmFt
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 18, 2025
The Panthers are entering the offseason with their head held high following a solid second half of the season for Young. He looked a different quarterback than the one the Carolina Panthers benched early in the season. He had 17 total touchdowns over his final eight games. Carolina’s offense looked like a competent unit over that stretch as they went 3-5. Dalton’s tutelage of Young seemingly played some part in a flurry to finish the year.
Young ended his sophomore season on a high note on the road against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 18. He had the best game of his career totaling five touchdowns. That game is even more impressive when considering the Falcons had a path to making the NFL Playoffs heading into the matchup. He helped the Carolina Panthers prevail in a 44-38 OT thriller.
Final Thoughts
The Dalton signing is a shrewd one for a Panthers team seemingly on the ascent. He will continue mentoring Young and can fill in as the starting quarterback if needed. Carolina will look to build upon a solid second half of the season led by a great stretch from Young. They hold the No. 8 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and will look to bolster their team with a player who can make an immediate impact.
