In a surprising move, the Carolina Panthers have decided to bench quarterback Bryce Young for their upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders. This decision was reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, adding a layer of intrigue to the team’s strategy.
Instead of Young, the Panthers will be starting veteran Andy Dalton. The duration of this change is uncertain, as coach Dave Canales has not revealed his long-term plans. However, Dalton is set to take the field in Week 3 at least, stepping into the spotlight as the new starting QB.
Dalton, who joined the Panthers at the beginning of the 2023 season, has already seen action in four games. Prior to his time with the Panthers, he served as the main starter for the Cincinnati Bengals from 2011 to 2019, bringing a wealth of experience to the field.
The decision to bench Young comes as no surprise to many, as the former No. 1 pick in the 2023 NFL draft has struggled to find success in his professional career. With only two wins under his belt since his debut, Young has faced numerous challenges in the league.
Statistics from this season further highlight Young’s difficulties on the field. With a completion rate of 31 out of 56 passes for 245 yards, zero touchdowns, and three interceptions, the young quarterback has faced significant obstacles. Additionally, he has been sacked six times, underscoring the struggles of the Panthers’ offense, which has only scored 13 points in two games.
As the Panthers make a bold move by benching Young in favor of Dalton, the team is hoping for a spark that will lead to improved performance on the field. Only time will tell if this quarterback change will pay off for Carolina.
