Panthers’ Bryce Young shares honest take on Dave Canales amid QB’s resurgence

Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young, the top overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, is beginning to show the promise that made him a generational prospect. Amid a season of ups and downs, Young’s recent resurgence has caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. A key figure in this turnaround has been Dave Canales, the offensive coordinator brought in to reinvigorate the Panthers’ offense. Young recently opened up about Canales’ impact on his development, offering an honest and insightful perspective on their collaboration.

A Fresh Approach to Carolina’s Offense

Dave Canales, who joined the Panthers’ coaching staff in the offseason after a successful stint with the Seattle Seahawks, was brought in to breathe life into an offense that had struggled with consistency. Known for his work with young quarterbacks like Geno Smith and his creative play-calling, Canales was seen as the ideal mentor for Young as he transitioned from college to the NFL.

The partnership didn’t produce fireworks right away. Early in the season, the Panthers’ offense was plagued by protection issues, dropped passes, and a lack of rhythm. However, Canales remained steadfast, tailoring the playbook to Young’s strengths and focusing on gradual growth rather than instant results.

Bryce Young’s Take on Canales

When asked about Canales’ influence during his recent press conference, Young didn’t hold back his praise.

“Coach Canales has been incredible for me,” Young said. “He’s always preaching patience and precision, and that’s something I’ve really taken to heart. He’s not just coaching the plays; he’s coaching the mindset, the preparation. I feel like I’m growing every week because of his approach.”

Young also credited Canales for helping him handle the mental challenges of being a rookie quarterback. “There’s a lot of pressure in this league, especially when you’re in my position,” Young admitted. “But Coach Canales always keeps the atmosphere positive. He’s taught me to trust the process and believe in the work we’re putting in, even when the results aren’t immediate.”

The Resurgence in Numbers

Over the past few games, Young’s improvement has been evident. After a rocky start, he has displayed better decision-making, quicker processing under pressure, and a greater willingness to push the ball downfield. Canales has adjusted the offensive scheme to incorporate more play-action and rollouts, leveraging Young’s mobility and accuracy on the move.

In a recent win, Young completed over 70% of his passes for 280 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing the poise and precision that made him a Heisman Trophy winner at Alabama. It was a game that underscored the growing synergy between Young and Canales.

The Road Ahead

While Young’s resurgence is a positive sign for the Panthers, both he and Canales know there’s still work to be done. The offensive line needs to protect Young more consistently, and the receiving corps must continue to develop chemistry with their young quarterback.

“We’re not where we want to be yet, but we’re trending in the right direction,” Canales said in a recent interview. “Bryce is a special talent, and our job as a staff is to make sure we’re putting him in the best possible position to succeed. The strides he’s made are a testament to his work ethic and his ability to learn and adapt.”

Conclusion

Bryce Young’s comments about Dave Canales highlight the importance of a strong coach-player relationship in the NFL. With Canales’ guidance, Young is beginning to look like the franchise quarterback the Panthers envisioned when they drafted him. While the team’s record might not yet reflect their potential, the connection between Young and Canales is a bright spot that could shape the future of Carolina football.

As the Panthers build for the long term, their young quarterback’s faith in his offensive coordinator may prove to be the cornerstone of a new era in Charlotte.