The Carolina Panthers are dismissing rumors of trading quarterback Bryce Young despite benching him in favor of veteran Andy Dalton for Week 3. Young has struggled in the NFL since being selected as the first overall pick in 2023, having the worst record through 18 games of any first overall QB in the Super Bowl Era. However, Panthers coach Dave Canales affirmed that Young could still be a franchise quarterback and that their program is focused on development. While Young was reportedly unhappy about being benched, he is expected to remain professional and work on improving his performance.
In his first two games of the season, Young completed just 31 of 56 pass attempts without throwing a touchdown pass and accumulating three interceptions. Despite his struggles, the Panthers organization is committed to evaluating his progress and pushing him to take the next step in his development. Young is scheduled to address the media to discuss the situation ahead of the team’s upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders, where Dalton will be starting in place of Young. The Raiders, coming off a victory over the Ravens, will present a tough challenge for the Panthers.
The decision to bench Young in favor of Dalton was based on Young’s poor performance in the previous game, where he threw for only 84 yards and an interception in a significant loss to the Charges. The Panthers are emphasizing the importance of the quarterback position and have a positive outlook on the situation despite the recent struggles. Canales reiterated the team’s confidence in their quarterbacks and expressed satisfaction with their overall depth at the position. The Panthers are focused on supporting Young and other players in their development, indicating that all hands are on deck to help the team succeed.
While speculation about trading Young continues to circulate, the Panthers remain steadfast in their support of the young quarterback. Canales emphasized the developmental nature of their program and the ongoing evaluation of all players to ensure they continue to improve. Young’s upcoming press conference will provide further insight into his mindset and approach to the situation. As the Panthers prepare to face the Raiders, they are looking to rebound from their previous loss and secure a victory on the road. The team’s confidence in Dalton as the starter for Week 3 reflects their commitment to making decisions that they believe will give them the best chance to succeed in the upcoming game.
