The Carolina Panthers are making waves early in the 2024 NFL season, but not for the reasons their fans had hoped. After just two games, the franchise has decided to bench Bryce Young, the 2023 No. 1 overall pick, in favor of veteran quarterback Andy Dalton. The decision comes on the heels of an 0-2 start, prompting intense scrutiny and speculation about the future of the Panthers' young star.
The Panthers began the season with high hopes, but an 0-2 start has led head coach Dave Canales to make significant adjustments. Young, despite his promise and potential, found himself relegated to the sidelines after just two games behind center. "Not something I was necessarily expecting. Obviously, not something that was great to hear," Young admitted. "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."
Canales, tasked with navigating this challenging period, is clearly making moves to address glaring issues on both sides of the ball. One such concern is the Panthers' performance in the run game. The team ran the ball 38 times over the first two games, but opponents countered with a staggering 81 rushing attempts. These numbers reveal a defense struggling to contain the ground game, further complicating the Panthers' early season woes.
Despite the early turmoil, Young has shown maturity and 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," he reflected. "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."
Support for Young has not wavered among his teammates and even some high-profile figures in the sports world. After their Week 2 loss to the Chargers, several players rallied behind Young, underscoring their belief in his abilities and potential. Additionally, NBA superstar LeBron James offered words of encouragement via social media, stating that the benching "ain't on you," further underscoring the widespread support for Young.
Young’s perspective remains focused and positive despite the setback. "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," Young stated, showcasing his continued commitment to the Panthers.
The Panthers' coaching staff now faces the critical task of steering the team back on course. With the next set of games seen as crucial for the team's aspirations this season, all eyes will be on how Canales and Dalton navigate this period. As Panthers fans watch closely, the support and resilience of key players, including Young, will be vital in weathering this challenging start.
As the dust settles on this surprising early-season shift, it is evident that the narrative surrounding Bryce Young and the Panthers is far from over. With the backing of teammates, coaches, and even sports legends like LeBron James, the young quarterback's journey will continue to be a focal point in the NFL season. And while he may not be under center for now, his role in the team’s immediate and long-term future remains a significant storyline to follow.