The Carolina Panthers announced on Monday that their starting quarterback Bryce Young will sit on the bench on Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders. Backup Andy Dalton will start instead.
Young, the No. 1 pick in 2023, has won just two games in his NFL career and struggled in his first two starts this season. Coach Dave Canales spoke about the decision on Monday shortly after the news broke, stressing that it was his decision. He made it clear that he is ready to win some football games and believes Dalton gives the team the best chance to do so.
“There are a lot of factors that go into this decision. And ultimately, it was just up to me to make the best decision for our group so that we have the best chance to win this week,” Canales said. “And we’re focused on the weeks, we’re focused on the challenge ahead. We believe Andy gives us the best chance to overcome the challenge.”
“This was my decision. This is our football team. We try to win every week. And even though it’s my decision, I get information from the people who make those decisions. But I felt like this gave us a chance to improve our style of play and be able to compete against a really good Raiders team this week.”
Canales did not comment on how long he plans to keep Young on the bench, but it’s possible the quarterback change will continue beyond this weekend.
So far this season, Young has completed 31 of 56 passes for 245 yards, zero touchdowns and three interceptions. He has also been sacked six times. The Panthers have scored just 13 points in two games this season.
