In a sudden turn of events, Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young benched by coach Dave Canalesthen he Andy DaltonBut Brice wasn’t benched because of an injury — he’s the first No. 1 draft pick in years to be benched for reasons unrelated to injury. So why was he replaced by Andy? Here’s everything we know.
Why did Dave Canales bench Bryce Young?
According to ESPNCanales said the decision to bench Brice was ultimately his own, and that he discussed the move with general manager Dan Morgan and executive vice president Brant Tillis.
“Obviously there are a lot of people involved, but ultimately it’s my responsibility,” the coach explained to the outlet. “My number one responsibility is to help the Panthers win, and this move gives me the best opportunity to do that.”
The coach added that he had watched Brice’s recent games, but ultimately “had to make the decision that was best for the team.”
Dave Canales speaks to the media. https://t.co/flWz6WFkXt
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) September 16, 2024
“Obviously, I take it personally,” Dave pointed out. “This is about building a culture, this is about building a football team that plays a certain style, and that’s my main focus. And more than anything, helping the Panthers win. So that’s what this decision was about.”
Brice was posting a career-low QBR of 6.4 in the Panthers’ loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, and he also spoke after the Panthers’ game against the Las Vegas Raiders, noting that he’s “very blessed” to be where he is in his career despite being benched.
“I’m very blessed,” Brice said at a news conference. “I’m grateful for this challenge. It’s not an ideal start, but God does everything for a reason, and I believe that.”
Bryce Young speaks to the media. https://t.co/46v2JixVQu
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) September 15, 2024
Who is Andy Dalton?
Andy is a quarterback who played for the Cincinnati Bengals, Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints before joining the Panthers.
According to ESPN, Andy admitted he “didn’t expect” Canales to replace Brice, but “was praying for another opportunity.”
“When I got here I wasn’t sure if I’d be given another chance,” Andy confessed, “so I’m really looking forward to it and excited for what’s to come.”
Andy acknowledged the coach’s decision to bench Bryce. “It’s a tough situation. I’ve been on both sides and it’s tough for everybody. But for me, I’m just looking forward to it.”
Will Bryce Young return to the Panthers?
As of now, Brice is not playing quarterback for the Panthers. His future with the team is still unclear. The football player has been a fan favorite for years after he was a rising star on the Crimson Tide team at the University of Alabama. After a strong junior year, Brice decided to skip his senior year and enter the 2023 NFL Draft, with the Panthers selecting him first overall.