1 week Ago
Although the Carolina Panthers are benching Bryce Young, they're not necessarily giving up on last year's No. 1 draft pick. Following two lopsided losses, the Panthers will start Andy Dalton over Young in their Week 3 game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Young continued a tumultuous start to his NFL career by registering 245 passing yards and three interceptions to open the 2024 season. Many observers felt the move signaled an early end to the quarterback's Carolina tenure, but the Panthers reportedly see the situation differently. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport , the Panthers intend for Young to play again this season.
They see the benching as "more of a break" rather than the franchise abandoning hope on the 23-year-old. The team reportedly believes the hiatus will help Young's development. Those who evaluated the Heisman Trophy winner said he "seemed overwhelmed" and hesitant to throw the ball downfield.
Grant Halverson/Getty Images Even if the abrupt decision "shocked" him, Rapaport wrote that Young "handled the demotion well." "He was, of course, disappointed and frustrated," Rapoport said of Young. "But he went back to work, helping Dalton get ready and serving as the scout team QB.
Young cut it loose with the scout team in a way they hope he will eventually do when he's back on the field." Carolina's plan would seemingly eliminate the chance of someone acquiring Young in a buy-low deal during the season. ESPN's Adam Schefter said "several teams" have indicated interest, but the Panthers haven't shown any desire to trade Young.
While Young could make his way back to the field this season, he'll watch Dalton attempt to lead the Panthers to their first win of 2024 when they play at Vegas this Sunday at 4:05 p.m. ET.
Related: Multiple Teams Reportedly Have Interest In Trading For Bryce Young.
