The Carolina Panthers have made a significant shift just two games into the 2024 NFL season, benching Bryce Young, the highly anticipated 2023 No. 1 overall pick. The decision comes on the heels of an 0-2 start, a challenging beginning for a team and a player with high expectations.
A Rough Start
For Bryce Young, the start of the season was tumultuous. The Panthers posted an 0-2 record, and questions began looming about the team’s direction. Despite a notable college career, Young faced an uphill battle adjusting to the speed and complexity of the NFL. His performance in the first two games of the season failed to meet the high hopes pinned on him, leading to this early shake-up. Now, veteran quarterback Andy Dalton takes the helm, moving ahead of Young on the depth chart.
Young, showing maturity beyond his years, responded constructively to the news. "Not something I was necessarily expecting. Obviously, not something that was great to hear, but I respect Coach [Dave] Canales, I respect the organization. They made the decision. ... Right now, that's the situation that it is. I have to do everything to help the team whatever way I can," he stated.
Challenges on Offense and Defense
The Panthers' struggles have not been isolated to the quarterback position. Through the first two games, the team ran the ball 38 times, a testament to their attempts at establishing a ground game. However, their opponents combined for 81 rushing attempts, underscoring defensive vulnerabilities that have compounded the team's challenges.
The early part of the season proved difficult, and it's clear the games were physically demanding. Young visibly struggled, and he took full accountability for his performance. "At the end of the day, we had a ton of drives, a ton of games that I didn't do enough during that. I look in the mirror and I take accountability for that. ... For the most part, every snap hit my hands and I didn't do enough with it at the end of the day," Young reflected candidly.
Support from Teammates and Mentors
Despite the benching, Young has received an outpouring of support. Several of his Panthers teammates expressed their backing following their Week 2 loss to the Chargers. Additionally, NBA superstar LeBron James offered words of encouragement on social media, stating the benching "ain't on you." This public show of support highlights the broader sports community's recognition of Young's potential and character.
Young, maintaining a positive outlook, emphasized his ability to focus on the present. "Really, I'm a day-by-day type of person. Big picture stuff, that's out of my hands. That's in God's hands. Organizational stuff, that's with the people upstairs. I'm super grateful to be part of this team, this organization. I wanna help the team any way I can, and that's my focus," he said.
Looking Ahead
As the Panthers navigate through this early-season turbulence, head coach Dave Canales remains a pivotal figure in leading the team. The upcoming games are deemed critical for the Panthers as they seek to establish a more consistent and effective game plan. The adjustments made at quarterback are part of broader strategic decisions aimed at turning the season around.
Bryce Young’s benching is a reminder of the pressure and expectations that accompany the role of a top draft pick. While his initial foray into professional football may have hit some bumps, his response—marked by humility and determination—suggests that this is just one chapter in what many hope will be a long and successful career.
The focus now shifts to how the Panthers will adapt and how Young will continue to grow and contribute in any way he can. With the unwavering support from his team and sports community, the journey for Bryce Young and the Carolina Panthers continues with cautious optimism.