National media outlet predicts that key Carolina Panthers player will officially be a 'bust'

If the Carolina Panthers are going to find success in 2025 and beyond, they'll need quarterback Bryce Young to take a big step forward in his development. 

Young, the No. 1 overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft, has had a rocky start to his NFL career, but he appeared to turn things around last season after returning to the starting role late in the season. 

The former Alabama standout finished the 2024 season by passing for 251 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions in a 44-38 win against the Atlanta Falcons. 

Despite Young's strong finish to the 2024 season, CBS Sports' Cody Benjamin thinks the quarterback will end up being a "bust" in the NFL. 

From CBS Sports: When Young was picked over C.J. Stroud atop the 2023 class, few batted an eye. When Young was benched early in Year 2 under new head coach Dave Canales, many wondered if he'd already lost his chance to be the face of the Carolina Panthers. One thing's for sure: We still don't know where this story is going. The small but even-keeled Alabama product seemed to rediscover confidence as he closed 2024, but he's barely completed 60% of his throws after almost 30 starts. Can he be more than just serviceable? Why he will bust: The historically small frame leaves him at a perpetual disadvantage playing in the pocket, even his best NFL games haven't included major passing workloads, and the Panthers' offensive support is still quite questionable.

The odds are certainly against Young due to his slight frame. Young needs a good team -- specifically a good offensive line -- around him to truly thrive. 

Can the Panthers, as a whole, show significant improvement in 2025? If so, then maybe Young can finally take the next step in his development. But if not, it's hard to see Young ever reaching his potential in Charlotte.