Dan Orlovsky Makes Bold Top-Five Bryce Young Claim After Panthers’ Big Win
Bryce Young’s impressive start to the 2026 season has earned another major vote of confidence, this time from former NFL quarterback and ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky.
Following Carolina’s thrilling 32-26 victory over the Detroit Lions on Sunday Night Football, Orlovsky made a bold assessment of Young’s current form, placing the Panthers quarterback among the NFL’s top five.
“He’s been a top five quarterback in football through the first month,” Orlovsky said.
Orlovsky impressed by Young’s development
Orlovsky pointed to several areas of Young’s game that have taken a noticeable step forward.
According to the former quarterback, Young’s arm strength has improved since entering the NFL, while his ability to operate from the pocket has become one of his biggest strengths.
Orlovsky also highlighted Young’s anticipation, particularly his ability to recognize passing windows before they fully open.
He went as far as saying that Young and Brock Purdy are currently among the league’s best quarterbacks in that particular area.
Young backs it up against the Lions
Young gave Orlovsky plenty of evidence to support the argument during Sunday’s primetime matchup.
The Panthers quarterback completed 29 of 41 passes for 329 yards and two touchdowns, helping Carolina hold off a Lions offense that had scored at least 30 points in each of its first three games.
Young also continued to perform despite Carolina dealing with injuries to several important players.
His chemistry with wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan was especially impressive, with McMillan recording 14 catches for 192 yards and two touchdowns.
The victory moved Carolina to 2-2, giving the Panthers some valuable momentum heading into their Week 5 bye.
A new chapter for Young?
Young entered the NFL with enormous expectations after being selected No. 1 overall, but his first few seasons were filled with criticism and questions about whether he could become the franchise quarterback Carolina expected.
His performances this season are beginning to change that conversation.
With Young playing confidently, making quicker decisions and consistently delivering big throws, the Panthers suddenly have reason to believe their quarterback may finally be reaching the level many expected when he was drafted.
Orlovsky’s top-five claim may be bold this early in the season, but if Young continues producing at this level, it could become increasingly difficult to dismiss.
