Former college coach Nick Saban believes first overall pick Bryce Young's struggles stem from the lack of talent around him in Carolina.
Since being selected with the first overall pick in last year's NFL Draft, Bryce Young has endured a tumultuous start to his professional career with the Carolina Panthers. Despite being widely regarded as a generational talent, Young has struggled mightily, posting a dismal 2-16 record as a starter.
The Panthers' struggles have been compounded by their poor draft strategy, as they traded away several key players, including star wide receiver DJ Moore, in order to acquire Young. The absence of these playmakers has left Young with limited offensive support, which, according to his former college coach Nick Saban, has played a significant role in his difficulties.
Bryce Young Struggling in Carolina: Nick Saban Points to Lack of Talent
"Quarterback is a really hard position to play if the people around you don’t play well," Saban said on Friday's "The Pat McAfee Show." "That’s one of the bad things about being the first guy picked in a draft. You may go to a team that doesn’t have all the pieces. … Carolina did not, and they have to build this thing from the ground up."
Saban's comments underscore the importance of a strong supporting cast for any quarterback, but particularly for a young player like Young, who is still adjusting to the rigors of the NFL. Without reliable receivers, a sturdy offensive line, and a stout defense, Young has been unable to showcase his full potential.
Bryce Young Struggling in Carolina: Nick Saban Points to Lack of Talent
"I hate to see Bryce Young get benched, but I also don’t see a lot of opportunity for him to be successful based on the skill players they have around him, the offensive line they have around him," Saban added. "I think he’s the type of player that can really operate well when he has good players around him."
The Panthers' decision to trade Christian McCaffrey and Brian Burns for draft picks has further depleted their talent pool, leaving Young with even fewer weapons to work with. The team's relentless turnover has created a sense of instability, which is hardly conducive to the development of a young quarterback.
Bryce Young Struggling in Carolina: Nick Saban Points to Lack of Talent
In the midst of their struggles, the Panthers have turned to veteran quarterback Andy Dalton for stability. Dalton, who has 14 years of NFL experience, will start against the Las Vegas Raiders this weekend, giving Young a chance to regroup and work on improving his game.
While Young's struggles are undoubtedly concerning, it's important to remember that he is a highly talented player with a bright future. With time and a more supportive cast around him, Young has the potential to become a star quarterback in the NFL.
