Panthers to Start Andy Dalton Instead of No. 1 Pick Bryce Young in Week 3

After just two weeks, the Carolina Panthers have decided to bench Bryce Young, their 2023 No. 1 overall draft pick, in favor of veteran quarterback Andy Dalton. The change will take effect starting Week 3, when the Panthers face the Las Vegas Raiders.

Tom Pelissero of NFL Network was the first to report on the decision to sit Young. Panthers head coach Dave Canales explained to the media on Monday that Dalton offers the team the best chance to win. Canales also noted that the Panthers do not intend to add another quarterback to the roster at this time.

The move comes after the Panthers' disappointing start to the season, which has left them at 0-2. They suffered a heavy 26-3 defeat to the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, following a 47-10 loss to the New Orleans Saints in Week 1. Young has struggled significantly in these games, managing only one touchdown—a 3-yard rush against the Saints—while failing to make an impact through the air. He has thrown three interceptions and completed 31 of 56 passes for 245 yards. Despite starting all 16 games as a rookie last year, Young struggled to meet expectations, winning just two games and often appearing overwhelmed.

The decision to bench Young was reportedly a collaborative one involving Canales, general manager Dan Morgan, and executive vice president Brandt Tillis. Meanwhile, Dalton, now 36, steps in as a reliable, if not flashy, option. Known for his experience and steadiness, Dalton has filled in as a starter multiple times throughout his career, including stints with the Dallas Cowboys in 2020 and the New Orleans Saints in 2022. Although he is no longer a standout performer, Dalton’s dependability and veteran presence are seen as crucial for stabilizing the Panthers’ offense at this juncture.