Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young is reportedly “open to anything” regarding his future with the team, including the possibility of a trade, according to a source who spoke with ESPN’s David Newton. The 2023 No. 1 overall pick finds himself at a crossroads after being benched following a tough Week 2 loss, which saw his record as an NFL starter fall to 2-16.
Young, 23, was reportedly “very shocked” by the Panthers’ decision to bench him ahead of their Week 3 matchup, a move that favored veteran quarterback Andy Dalton. Sources close to NFL insider Jordan Schultz revealed that Young initially reacted with frustration to head coach Dave Canales’ decision to sideline him. However, as the dust settled, Young has kept an open mind about his future, whether it involves staying with Carolina or exploring new opportunities elsewhere.
Head coach Canales addressed the quarterback situation during a press conference on Wednesday, clarifying that the team is not actively looking to trade the second-year QB. Canales emphasized that the benching was a strategic decision aimed at finding short-term solutions for the team’s early-season struggles. Despite this, the speculation surrounding Young’s future has grown louder, with fans and analysts questioning the direction the Panthers will take.
Bryce Young spoke publicly about the benching on Thursday, stating that he still has confidence in his abilities despite the setback. “I believe in myself, and I know I can play at this level,” Young said, making it clear that his focus remains on improving and helping the team.
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The Panthers’ rough start to the 2024 season has certainly contributed to the uncertainty surrounding Young’s future. Over the first two games of the season, Young completed just 55.4% of his passes and failed to throw a touchdown while tossing three interceptions. Carolina’s offense has been outscored 73-13 during those games, leaving the team winless heading into Week 3. The struggles this season come on the heels of a disappointing rookie campaign for Young, in which he threw 11 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.
The pressure on the Panthers is mounting as the team has won just one of its last 12 games dating back to 2023. As the franchise looks for answers, they’ll be hoping that their decision to start Dalton will spark a turnaround when they visit the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 3.
Young’s situation is one of many challenges facing Carolina. The decision to bench the former Alabama standout has raised questions about the team’s long-term commitment to the young quarterback, who was once viewed as a potential franchise cornerstone. While the team insists they’re not pursuing a trade, Young’s openness to different options leaves the door cracked for potential changes in the near future.
As the Panthers continue to navigate a turbulent season, the focus remains on whether Young can rebound from this adversity and reestablish himself as the leader of the team—or whether his future lies elsewhere in the NFL.
