Panthers Insist There’s No ‘Bryce Young Issue’—But Is It Time to Make a Change?
In the aftermath of the Carolina Panthers’ 2024 season, which concluded with a 5–12 record, speculation surrounding quarterback Bryce Young’s future has intensified. Despite a midseason benching and a historically poor defensive performance, the Panthers’ front office and coaching staff have consistently reaffirmed their commitment to Young as the team’s starting quarterback.
A Season of Highs and Lows
Young’s sophomore season was marked by inconsistency. After a challenging start, including a benching in favor of veteran Andy Dalton following a Week 2 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, Young returned to the starting role due to Dalton’s injury. He finished the season with 21 total touchdowns—15 passing and six rushing—demonstrating significant growth and resilience. Notably, his performance in the season finale, a 44–38 overtime victory over the Atlanta Falcons, showcased his potential and leadership .
Before College Student Vanished on Beach, Resort Says There Were ‘Strong’ Currents and ‘Very High Waves’
Front Office’s Stance
Panthers owner David Tepper expressed confidence in Young’s abilities, stating, “I think we’ve got our QB here,” following the team’s win over the Falcons . Head coach Dave Canales echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that Young would be the team’s quarterback moving forward and praising his development throughout the season .
The Bigger Picture
While the Panthers have committed to Young, the team’s defensive struggles have been a significant concern. In 2024, Carolina’s defense allowed a record-breaking 534 points, the most in NFL history for a single season . This defensive deficiency has overshadowed Young’s progress and raised questions about the team’s overall strategy.
Looking Ahead
As the Panthers enter the 2025 season, the focus will likely shift to bolstering the defense. The team has already made moves to address this need, including selecting cornerback Will Johnson in the 2025 NFL Draft . However, the question remains: Can Young continue to develop into the franchise quarterback the Panthers envision, or will the team’s defensive shortcomings impede his growth?
In conclusion, while the Panthers have publicly committed to Bryce Young, the challenges of the past season suggest that both the quarterback and the team must continue to evolve to achieve long-term success.
Leave a Reply