Bryce Young Benched by Panthers After Struggling Start, Says AP Source

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — In a significant move, the Carolina Panthers have opted to bench Bryce Young, the team’s first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. This decision follows a challenging beginning to the season for the second-year quarterback, as reported by a source familiar with the situation.

This source spoke on the condition of anonymity, as Panthers head coach Dave Canales has yet to publicly comment on this decision. Moving forward, Andy Dalton has been named as the starting quarterback.

Young’s performance so far this season has been underwhelming. He has completed only 31 of 56 passes, accumulating just 244 yards while throwing three interceptions. The Panthers have had a rocky start, going 0-2 and being outscored a staggering 73-13 by the New Orleans Saints and the Los Angeles Chargers. Despite these struggles, Young managed to run for one touchdown, marking the only touchdown for Carolina this season.

The decision comes in light of Young’s overall record as a starter. He has managed only two wins against 16 losses since the Panthers made a bold trade to secure him. This trade involved moving up eight spots in the draft, resulting in a significant investment that included sending wide receiver D.J. Moore and four draft picks to the Chicago Bears. One of those picks turned out to be the first overall pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, highlighting the high stakes surrounding Young’s performance.

The Panthers’ disappointing record last season, which saw them finish with just two wins and fifteen losses, led to considerable scrutiny regarding their roster and player decisions. Following this bleak season, hopes were high that Young could turn the franchise around after being selected first overall.

As the Panthers continue to grapple with their early season woes, many fans and analysts will undoubtedly be closely watching Dalton’s performance as he steps into the starting role. Dalton brings a wealth of experience and may provide a stabilizing presence for the team as they search for their first win of the season.

Coach Canales is anticipated to address the media regarding this significant change and the broader implications for the team moving forward. The Panthers’ organization is under pressure to perform, especially given the expectations placed upon Young after being drafted as the top pick.

With only two games played this season, there is still time for recovery, but the Panthers must quickly find a solution if they want to salvage their season. The shift to Dalton as the starting quarterback signals a desire to shake things up and potentially revitalize the offense, which has struggled immensely in the early stages of the year.

The coming weeks will be crucial for the Panthers as they look to establish a rhythm on the field. Fans will be eager to see if Dalton can lead the team effectively and if Young can regain his confidence and find a way back onto the field. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will remain on the Panthers as they navigate this pivotal moment in their season.