After the Carolina Panthers announced that quarterback Bryce Young would be benched in favor of veteran Andy Dalton, speculation about Young’s future in Carolina skyrocketed. Following their significant investment in the former No. 1 overall pick, the Panthers have devised a new strategy for him.
The team wasn’t expected to compete in 2024, and their first two games highlighted their struggles. Despite hiring head coach Dave Canales to help Young, the offense was performing at historically low levels.
With a disappointing stat line—70.9 QB rating, 11 touchdowns to 3 interceptions, 5.4 yards per attempt, and 59.3% completion rate—Young’s performance prompted a shift. Canales announced Dalton as the new starter, a necessary move to establish a functioning offense and maintain locker room respect.
This benching also sparked trade rumors surrounding Young. While teams may not see him as a starter this season, he could be a buy-low candidate. There’s hope that, with the right coaching, he can regain confidence and become a viable starter.
However, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Young is expected to return as the Panthers’ starting quarterback later this season. Carolina believes that this time off will help him reset mentally and rebuild his confidence.
Multiple teams reached out to inquire about Young’s availability after his benching, but the Panthers made it clear they have no plans to trade him, especially with his value at a low point.
