At the midpoint of the season, there are several paths the Carolina Panthers could take before it is all said and done. 

But one path worth predicting is this: Bryce Young, the Panthers' No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, won't play terribly the rest of the way.

The saying goes, things have to get worse before they get better. That happened for Young against the Colts when he threw three interceptions, two of which were pick-6s. It can't get much worse, meaning Young will only get better. 

Does Young playing well mean the Panthers are going to win out? No. But it could add some confidence in the four-year plan for the franchise. 

The Panthers traded the house for Young. They don't own their first-round pick this year for that very reason. Ensuring that Young succeeds is the team's utmost priority.

After the wheels fell off against Indianapolis, and the Panthers won their first game against the Houston Texans, there isn't much left to add pressure on Young. He can finally play free. 

And it is in that freedom that maybe the Panthers might see glimpses of the quarterback Young was while at Alabama. 

Remember, there was a reason he was taken No. 1 overall. Regardless of how good C.J. Stroud is playing right now. Hindsight is always 20-20. A weightless Young, with minimal expectations, is a recipe for some form of success that has eluded him for most of the season. 

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