Carolina Panthers Bench Quarterback Bryce Young After Slow Start

The Carolina Panthers have decided to bench their 2023 No. 1 overall pick, Bryce Young, following a difficult start to the NFL season. Veteran quarterback Andy Dalton will take over as the starting quarterback for the Panthers’ upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders this Sunday.

Head coach Dave Canales announced the decision after reviewing game footage from the Panthers’ recent 26-3 defeat to the Los Angeles Chargers. The decision came after consultations with general manager Dan Morgan and vice president of football operations Brandt Tillis. “After watching the film and taking in all the information, I feel Andy gives us the best chance to win,” Canales stated. He did not commit to a long-term starter, saying the focus remains on the immediate game against the Raiders.

Canales did not disclose the specific reasons behind Young’s benching, noting that these matters were part of confidential discussions. Much of Canales’ reputation comes from his past work with quarterbacks Geno Smith in Seattle and Baker Mayfield in Tampa Bay, having turned their careers around. Expectations were high for Canales to improve Young’s performance, especially after a rookie season marked by near-equal touchdown passes (11) and interceptions (10).

However, Young’s difficulties persist. In the first two games of this season, Young completed only 31 of 56 passes for 244 yards and recorded three interceptions. The Panthers currently have a record of 0-2, losing heavily to both the New Orleans Saints and the Chargers. Young’s sole contribution was a rushing touchdown, the team’s only score of the season.

Canales responded cautiously when asked about Young’s support from the locker room. He emphasized that the team is focusing on improving their gameplay and preparing for their match against Las Vegas. Young holds a record of 2-16 as a starter. The Panthers made a significant trade move to secure him in the 2023 NFL Draft, trading with the Chicago Bears and giving up wide receiver DJ Moore and four draft picks. Chicago used one of these picks to draft quarterback Caleb Williams.

Young has become the first No. 1 overall draft pick to be benched for non-injury-related reasons in his second season since the common draft era began in 1967. His performance has often been criticized for consistent poor decision-making, such as throwing into double coverage and appearing unsettled in the pocket.

Young faced backlash from fans during a home game as the team’s offensive efforts continually faltered. When questioned about his confidence, Young said, “I draw my confidence from the Lord. I’m very blessed. I’m grateful for this challenge. Not an ideal start, but God does everything for a reason. I have faith in that.” He admitted the need for improved decision-making on his part.

Meanwhile, Andy Dalton, aged 36, is no stranger to stepping in. He started one game for the Panthers last season when Young was injured, leading to a loss against the Seattle Seahawks despite throwing two touchdowns without interceptions.