Why the Panthers Could Stick With Bryce Young
The Carolina Panthers selected quarterback Bryce Young with the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, signaling their belief in his potential as the franchise quarterback. Despite a challenging rookie season marked by struggles and mixed results, the Panthers appear committed to Young as the face of their offense. Here are several reasons why sticking with Bryce Young could be the right move for the Panthers.
1. Development Takes Time
Every rookie quarterback needs time to adjust to the NFL. Even elite players like Peyton Manning, who threw a then-record 28 interceptions in his rookie season, struggled initially but eventually found great success. With patience and experience, Young could follow a similar path, maturing into a more refined and productive quarterback over time. Allowing him to develop his skills within the Panthers’ system could pay dividends down the road.
2. High Football IQ and Poise
One of Young’s standout qualities coming out of Alabama was his football IQ and decision-making. He’s known for his calm demeanor, which has been evident even when facing intense pressure from NFL defenses. Young demonstrated poise under pressure in college, leading Alabama to several comeback wins. This mental toughness and ability to stay calm under duress are invaluable traits for an NFL quarterback. Over time, as the game slows down for him, his intelligence and poise could become even more pronounced assets.
3. Investments in the Offensive Line and Receivers
Young’s rookie season has exposed areas where the Panthers need improvement, particularly on the offensive line and in the receiving corps. An underperforming offensive line can stall a young quarterback’s growth, making it essential for the Panthers to prioritize protection and receiving options for Young. The Panthers have already started investing in upgrades and will likely continue to do so in the upcoming draft and free agency. Surrounding Young with reliable targets and a strong offensive line could accelerate his development and allow him to reach his potential.
4. The Organizational Commitment to Building Long-Term Success
Drafting a quarterback first overall is not a short-term commitment. By choosing Young, the Panthers signaled their intent to build around him as the cornerstone of the franchise. Jumping ship early on can create instability, making it difficult for the franchise to find its footing and establish a winning culture. Panthers’ management is likely aware that continuity and confidence are key ingredients to a successful rebuild. Sticking with Young could signal stability to the rest of the team and give the organization a chance to evaluate him fully.
5. Bryce Young’s Unique Skill Set and Potential Ceiling
Young’s college career showcased his unique skill set, with a combination of mobility, accuracy, and playmaking ability. Though the NFL is a different game, the qualities he demonstrated at Alabama are rare and sought-after in modern NFL offenses. His agility and precision make him a natural fit for today’s faster, more dynamic league. The Panthers may believe that Young’s ceiling is worth the time and investment to reach, given his potential to become a franchise-changing talent.
6. Learning from Other NFL Quarterbacks’ Journeys
Recent NFL history has shown several cases where teams that showed patience with their young quarterbacks were rewarded. Quarterbacks like Josh Allen, Jalen Hurts, and Tua Tagovailoa all faced early struggles and doubts but eventually emerged as some of the most effective leaders in the league. By maintaining their faith in Young, the Panthers might allow him the same opportunity to grow into a high-performing quarterback who can lead the team into a competitive future.
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