Panthers Head Coach Possibly Hinted at Major Move Coming for Bryce Young

Bryce Young, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft, was once heralded as the future of the Carolina Panthers. After a standout career at Alabama, the Panthers made significant sacrifices—trading star receiver DJ Moore and high draft picks to acquire him.

However, Young's transition to the NFL has been anything but smooth as his rookie season ended with 11 touchdowns, 10 interceptions, and 62 sacks, leaving the Panthers to question whether their investment will pay off.

In 2024, his struggles continued, and after two lackluster games, Young was benched in favor of veteran Andy Dalton.

Recent developments have added fuel to the fire surrounding Young's future in Carolina. In the Panthers' Week 7 loss to the Washington Commanders, Young had the chance to play in a game that was essentially over, but head coach Dave Canales opted not to insert him until mop-up duty late in the game.

This decision could indicate that the Panthers want to keep Young healthy for a potential trade before the Nov. 5 deadline.

ESPN's David Newton shared insights suggesting that, despite public statements of faith in Young’s future with the team, Canales' actions may tell a different story.

"...Canales didn't give Young the second half to prove himself when they were down 37-0 doesn't signal a strong belief," Newton said, via ESPN . "His eventual appearance in mop-up duty opens speculation that Young could be traded before the deadline or that Carolina could move on from him before next season."

During the Panthers' 40-7 blowout loss to the Commanders, Young saw limited action, completing 2 of 2 passes for -4 yards. This brief appearance did little to alleviate concerns about his ability to lead the team moving forward.

While the Panthers have publicly maintained that Young is part of their future plans, the speculation grows as trade rumors swirl, and Young's declining passer rating, paired with struggles to adapt to the professional level, has left many wondering if Carolina will make a major move to part ways with the former No. 1 pick before the season's end.

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