Panthers Stand By Bryce Young After Benching Him For Andy Dalton

The Panthers named Andy Dalton as their new starting quarterback earlier this week, relieving 2023 first-overall pick Bryce Young of his duties — for now. Despite leading the team to a 2-16 record since taking over last season, Young is reportedly not on the trade block and will carry on with the team.

When asked whether the team would consider sending Young away after benching him, Panthers head coach Dave Canales said that he was content with the team’s quarterback situation and had no desire to change anything. Young’s teammates are also standing by him.

“It’s definitely not over,” running back Miles Sanders said. “Definitely. He’s smart. He’s fast. He’s the first one in the building, the last one out. It’s definitely not over. This is his home, and he’s gonna get another shot.”

Young has gained some measure of sympathy from many fans after getting benched, with many arguing that he has never been in a comfortable situation since debuting in 2023. Immediately named the starter of a poor team, Young showed flashes of potential but Carolina has been completely hapless.

The young quarterback was sacked 62 times for a league-high loss of 477 yards in 2023, throwing 11 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. The team went 2-14 with him under center, but it’s impossible to place the blame on him entirely. Going into 2024, the Panthers were projected to be the worst in the NFL, with or without Young, and they have delivered on that with two blowout losses thus far.

Not only is Carolina bad now, but because they traded away multiple draft picks and wide receiver D.J. Moore in order to acquire Young, the team’s future is bleak as well. The roster is simply not capable of competing at the professional level.

The team’s approach at the quarterback position is sensible, at least. It seems prudent to give Young time to develop behind Dalton, a journeyman with an abundance of experience in the league. Many quarterbacks labeled “busts” have gone on to flourish later in their careers after spending time behind more experienced passers. It’s clear that the Panthers want Young to succeed, even if they haven’t always been able to help him to this point.

If Young ever starts again, he may find himself behind an improved offensive line, one that seems to slowly be finding its way in the early going. Right now, however, Young must adjust to new expectations and take time to develop and learn. It will likely be a difficult transition.

On the way into practice earlier this week, a fan asked Young, shortly after he was benched, to sign an autograph. The quarterback obliged, despite appearing somewhat distracted. The fan told Young that he was rooting for him and encouraged him to persevere. Carolina’s new backup acknowledged the fan’s kind words but was understandably terse in responding to them. He seems to be at a low point.

Article by Patrick Moquin