Sep 16, 2024 - Sports

Carolina Panthers bench Bryce Young

Ashley Mahoney

Bryce Young and Dave Canales look at the scoreboard. — Quarterback Bryce Young (left) and head coach Dave Canales. Photo: Chris Graythen/Getty Images

The Carolina Panthers have decided to bench quarterback Bryce Young, first-year head coach Dave Canales confirmed during a press conference Monday.

Why it matters: The Panthers are 0-2 and desperately need an offensive spark. They've turned to 36-year-old veteran quarterback Andy Dalton to provide that, or at least throw a touchdown, which Young has failed to do this season.

The intrigue: Despite the young quarterback getting booed by fans Sunday, Canales emphatically said "Bryce is our quarterback" following Sunday's loss to the Chargers.

What they're saying: During his 12-minute press conference Monday, Canales declined to provide specifics about why he opted for Dalton over Young, beyond saying he feels Dalton gives them the best chance to win.

He said after watching the tape this was the "best decision for the team" and declined to give a timeline or indicate whether the quarterback transition was permanent or temporary.
There will likely be other changes to the offense, Canales confirmed.

What's next: Young will head to Las Vegas with the Panthers as the No. 2 quarterback to face the Raiders on Sunday, Sept. 22, at 4:05pm.

Flashback: The Panthers traded up to select Young, the 2021 Heisman Trophy winner, No. 1 overall in the 2023 NFL draft.

In exchange, they gave the Chicago Bears the No. 9 pick, a 2024 first-round pick, wide receiver D.J. Moore and two second-round picks.

Go deeper: Carolina Panthers 2024 season preview

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Carolina Panthers bench Bryce Young

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