In a surprising move, the Carolina Panthers have decided to bench Bryce Young, the No. 1 overall pick from the 2023 NFL Draft, after just two games into the 2024 season. This decision came on the heels of an 0-2 start, which left fans and analysts speculating about the future trajectory of both the team and its recently crowned franchise quarterback.
Bryce Young, now positioned behind veteran Andy Dalton on the team's depth chart, expressed his disappointment but remained respectful of the team's decision. "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. Taking personal responsibility for the Panthers' early struggles, Young added, "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."
A Rocky Start
The Panthers' season began on a sour note, with the team dropping both of its opening games. Over those games, the Panthers focused heavily on the running game, totaling 38 rushing attempts, while their opponents combined for a staggering 81 rushing attempts against them. This disparity indicated a struggle, not only in controlling the clock but also in defensive stamina and effectiveness.
LeBron James, an athlete who knows the highs and lows of a highly scrutinized career, took to social media to offer Young some encouragement, stating boldly that the benching "ain't on you." Such words could provide a morale boost for the young quarterback as he navigates this turbulent period.
Support from Players and Coach
Despite the tough start, Young has garnered significant support from his teammates and others within the Panthers organization. Several players rallied behind him following their Week 2 loss to the Chargers, underscoring the camaraderie and unity that persists within the team. Young, never one to shirk from his responsibilities, responded to this backing with humility and focus. "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 reaffirmed.
The Road Ahead
Head coach Dave Canales is now faced with the task of guiding the Panthers through this difficult stretch. With crucial games ahead, the decisions made in the coming weeks will weigh heavily on the franchise's season and beyond. The spotlight will not only be on Andy Dalton as he steps into the starting role but also on how the team adapts to this sudden change in leadership.
Where this move leaves Bryce Young in the long term remains to be seen. His potential and talent are undoubted, evidenced by his high draft selection and the initial excitement surrounding his entry into the NFL. Yet, the transition from college to professional football is rarely seamless, and Young's journey so far is a testament to the challenges inherent in stepping up to the highest level of the sport.
As the Panthers vie to turn their season around, all eyes will be on how Young handles this setback and what effect this benching will have on his career and the team's trajectory. With supporters like LeBron James and his ever-positive mindset, Young's resilience will undoubtedly be a storyline to follow closely in the 2024 NFL season.