In Week 1 of the NFL season, the Carolina Panthers are already facing significant concerns surrounding quarterback Bryce Young, their No. 1 overall pick in 2023. Young struggled in their 47-10 loss to the Saints, finishing with a passer rating of just 32.8. Despite being named the starter and team captain, questions are arising about Young’s ability to lead the team effectively. The Charlotte Observer’s Scott Fowler expressed doubts about the Heisman Trophy winner’s performance, noting that he appeared overwhelmed, undersized, and out of his element on the field.
Young’s lackluster performance in the season opener raised concerns about his future with the Panthers. Despite the team’s investment in him as their top draft pick, doubts linger about whether he can truly become the leader they need. In his first game under rookie head coach Dave Canales, Young struggled, completing just 13 of 30 passes for 161 yards with two interceptions. Veteran backup Andy Dalton stepped in during the final minutes of the game as Young’s replacement, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his role as the starting quarterback.
Following the disappointing loss to the Saints, Young took responsibility for his performance and emphasized the need to learn from the mistakes made in the game. Despite the challenges they faced in Week 1, Young remains optimistic about the team’s potential for the rest of the season. Canales echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of overcoming adversity and staying focused on the long journey ahead for the Panthers. The team’s ability to come together and show their character in the face of adversity will be crucial as they look to bounce back from their season-opening defeat.
Fowler highlighted specific areas where Young struggled during the game, including hesitancy when receivers were open, poor decision-making, and inconsistency in his aggressiveness. These issues raise concerns about Young’s ability to adapt and improve as the season progresses. Canales, who played a key role in developing Baker Mayfield into a successful quarterback, emphasized the need for patience and perseverance in the team’s development. Despite the challenges they faced in Week 1, Canales remains focused on the team’s long-term growth and development.
As the Panthers prepare for their home opener against the Chargers, they face mounting pressure to show improvement and bounce back from their disappointing start to the season. With Young’s performance under scrutiny and questions surrounding his ability to lead the team effectively, the Panthers will need to demonstrate resilience and determination in the face of adversity. The outcome of their upcoming game will be crucial in determining the team’s trajectory for the rest of the season and Young’s future as the starting quarterback for the Carolina Panthers.
