Carolina Panthers players didn’t hold back when discussing the recent benching of quarterback Bryce Young, the 2023 No. 1 overall pick, in favor of veteran Andy Dalton.
Young was benched after a rough start to the 2024 season, where he threw for just 244 yards and three interceptions over two games, both resulting in losses. Struggling to lead the offense, head coach Dave Canales made the decision to start Dalton, who brings years of experience as a proven NFL starter.
Dalton made an immediate impact in his first start, leading the Panthers to a 36-22 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. He threw for 319 yards and three touchdowns, showing command of the offense from the start by capping the opening drive with a touchdown.
The Panthers also saw a significant improvement in third-down conversions, successfully completing five of 12 attempts.
Despite the quarterback change, teammates have praised Dalton’s mentorship and support for Young during this transition.
Benched before, Panthers' Andy Dalton relates to Bryce Young – via @ESPN App https://t.co/3wEdhYIVWz
— David Newton (@DNewtonespn) September 27, 2024
“Andy’s more of a big brother to Bryce,” said wide receiver Jonathan Mingo in an interview with ESPN’s David Newton. “There’s no bad blood, just a big bro showing him how to do it.”
Wide receiver Adam Thielen echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the strong relationship between the two quarterbacks.
“This is a relationship that has been built between the two of them over a long time,” Thielen said. “They trust each other. They love each other.”
While the team acknowledges the bond between Dalton and Young, players admit that the situation remains challenging.
Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard highlighted the difficulties.
“It was a tough situation for all of us, the adversity,” Hubbard said. But Andy’s a vet. He knows how to handle it.”
As Dalton leads the Panthers forward, it remains to be seen if Young will regain his starting role in Carolina.
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