The Carolina Panthers may already be considering alternatives at quarterback, with head coach Dave Canales reportedly unsure about Bryce Young’s long-term viability as the team’s starter.
According to Joseph Person of The Athletic, Canales may not yet be fully convinced that Young is the future face of the franchise. The Panthers are said to be exploring options, including the possibility of selecting Miami quarterback Cam Ward in the 2025 NFL Draft. Additionally, the team could be intrigued by Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields as a potential bridge option.
Despite leading the Panthers to victories in each of the past two weeks, Young’s position is far from secure. Person also noted that the team may consider turning to veteran Andy Dalton as the starter for Week 11.
Young, who was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has had a rocky start to his career. After the Panthers traded a substantial package to acquire the top pick, Young struggled in his rookie season, passing for 2,977 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions while leading the team to a 2-14 record.
His performance has not shown significant improvement in 2024. Through seven games, Young has thrown for 820 yards, four touchdowns, and six interceptions. After an 0-2 start, he regained the starting role following Dalton’s injury, but his return has been less than inspiring, with a 2-1 record in his last three starts.
While Young, at just 23 years old, still holds significant potential, the Panthers may ultimately decide that a change at quarterback is necessary if Canales and the team’s leadership feel he is not the long-term solution. Moving on from Young would represent a bold and potentially costly decision for the franchise.