Bryce Young, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has been benched by the Carolina Panthers after two disappointing performances to start the season.
The Carolina Panthers have made a surprising move, benching their starting quarterback, Bryce Young, after only two games into the 2024 season. The team announced that veteran Andy Dalton will take over as the starter for the Panthers' Week 3 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Young, who was highly touted as the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has struggled in his first two starts for the Panthers. In those games, he has thrown for just 245 yards, no touchdowns, and three interceptions. The Panthers have lost both games, being outscored by a combined score of 63-17.
Bryce Young Benched by Carolina Panthers Amidst Struggles
The Panthers' decision to bench Young is a sign of their frustration with his performance and their lack of confidence in his ability to lead the team to victory. Young, who is still only 22 years old, is considered to be a talented quarterback with a high ceiling, but he has not yet shown the consistency and poise necessary to succeed in the NFL.
Panthers head coach Matt Rhule stated that the decision to bench Young was made after careful consideration and that he believes it is in the best interests of the team.
Bryce Young Benched by Carolina Panthers Amidst Struggles
"Bryce is a talented young quarterback, but we feel that he needs more time to develop," Rhule said. "We believe that Andy Dalton gives us the best chance to win right now."
Dalton is a veteran quarterback with 13 seasons of experience in the NFL. He has started 160 games in his career, throwing for over 35,000 yards and 225 touchdowns.
Bryce Young Benched by Carolina Panthers Amidst Struggles
Dalton joined the Panthers last year and served as the backup to Sam Darnold. He played in three games, starting one, and threw for 361 yards and two touchdowns.
The Panthers are hoping that Dalton's experience and leadership will help stabilize the offense and lead the team to victory. Dalton has a proven track record of success as a starting quarterback, and the Panthers believe he can provide the stability that Young has lacked.
The Panthers are now 0-2 on the season and face an uphill battle to make the playoffs. They will need to improve their offensive production and find a way to win games if they want to have any chance of competing in the NFC South.
Young's benching is a major setback for the Panthers, but it is also an opportunity for him to learn and grow. He will need to work hard to improve his play and earn back the trust of his coaches and teammates.
If Young can do that, he has the potential to be a very good quarterback in the NFL. But for now, he will have to watch from the sidelines as Dalton leads the Panthers in their quest to turn their season around.
