The Carolina Panthers have made a significant decision early in the 2024 NFL season by benching Bryce Young, the 2023 No. 1 overall pick, after just two games. This move follows the team's 0-2 start, which included back-to-back losses and less-than-stellar performances. Young now finds himself behind veteran quarterback Andy Dalton on the depth chart.
Young’s benching comes as a surprise to many, including the quarterback himself. "Not something I was necessarily expecting. Obviously, not something that was great to hear, but I respect Coach [Dave] Canales, I respect the organization. They made the decision. ... Right now, that's the situation that it is. I have to do everything to help the team whatever way I can," Young said in a recent statement.
Despite the disappointing start, Young shows a refreshingly mature attitude toward the early season challenges. "Really, I'm a day-by-day type of person. Big picture stuff, that's out of my hands. That's in God's hands. Organizational stuff, that's with the people upstairs. I'm super grateful to be part of this team, this organization. I wanna help the team any way I can, and that's my focus," he added.
A Struggling Start
The Panthers’ young quarterback faced significant pressure in his first two games, with the team opting for a run-heavy approach, tallying 38 rushing attempts compared to opponents' 81 rushing attempts. Despite ample opportunities, Young admitted his shortcomings. "At the end of the day, we had a ton of drives, a ton of games that I didn't do enough during that. I look in the mirror and I take accountability for that. ... For the most part, every snap hit my hands and I didn't do enough with it at the end of the day," Young reflected.
Head Coach Dave Canales, who finds himself at the helm during this turbulent period, faces the task of steering the team back on course. His decision to bench the rookie quarterback immediately following two losses marks a bold and perhaps necessary move to recalibrate the team's strategy.
Support from the Locker Room and Beyond
In times of controversy, unity within a team becomes crucial. Several Panthers players have publicly supported Bryce Young even after the demoralizing Week 2 loss to the Chargers. This show of solidarity highlights the strong bonds within the team, underscoring the belief in Young’s potential despite his early struggles.
Notably, NBA superstar LeBron James offered words of encouragement to Young via social media, stating that the benching "ain't on you." This kind of public support from a high-caliber athlete like James can provide a significant moral boost for Young during this challenging period.
Critical Upcoming Games
Looking ahead, the Panthers face a critical stretch of games that could determine the course of their season. The focus will be on how the team adjusts with Dalton at the helm and whether Young will get another opportunity to prove himself on the field. The team's ability to rally around this decision and foster a resilient spirit will be essential as they navigate the tough road ahead.
For Young, this period represents an opportunity for introspection and development. His willingness to take responsibility and his commitment to contributing in any capacity underscore his potential to grow both as a player and a leader. The adversity he faces now might very well shape his future in the NFL.
As the Panthers aim to turn their season around, the narrative surrounding Bryce Young will undoubtedly be a focal point. How he evolves from this setback will be a story to watch, not just for Panthers fans but for the broader NFL community.