The Carolina Panthers have officially secured veteran quarterback Andy Dalton with a two-year contract extension. The deal, announced on Tuesday, ensures that the 37-year-old will remain with the team as a reliable backup to starting quarterback Bryce Young for the upcoming seasons.
Andy Dalton's contract details and value
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Dalton’s new contract is valued at $8 million, with $6 million in guaranteed money. The contract also includes potential escalators, bringing the total value to $10 million, though the specifics of those bonuses were not initially reported.
Andy Dalton's role in Carolina's Quarterback depth
Andy Dalton has served as Carolina’s backup quarterback for the past two seasons, providing stability in a critical role behind Bryce Young. During this time, Dalton made six starts for the Panthers. His experience and leadership have proven invaluable, especially as the team navigated quarterback challenges in 2024.
As the former Pro Bowl quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals, Dalton brings a wealth of experience to the Panthers’ roster as he enters his 15th NFL season.
2024 season highlights and Young's development
Dalton was thrust into action for five games in 2024 after Bryce Young, the Panthers' No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, was benched due to poor performance. Despite the setback, Young made a strong return to the starting lineup in Week 8, showcasing the potential that made him the top draft choice. By the end of the season, Young displayed significant growth, giving the Panthers optimism that he could reach the high expectations set for him.
Young finished the season with 2,403 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and nine interceptions across 14 games, including 12 starts. Additionally, he contributed 249 rushing yards and six touchdowns, demonstrating his dual-threat capabilities. With this promising finish, Young will enter the 2025 season as the Panthers' unquestioned starting quarterback after some early uncertainty about his future in Carolina.
For the Panthers, Andy Dalton’s continued presence is crucial. As a seasoned veteran, Dalton provides mentorship to Young, helping the young quarterback further refine his skills. His steady presence will continue to be an asset as Young navigates his second season as a starter, making the two-year extension a strategic move for the team’s quarterback development.