The Carolina Panthers started the 2024 NFL season seeking growth after their tough 2023 campaign. However, the Carolina possesses a lowly 1-6 record through seven weeks of action. The Panthers made a major quarterback change early in the season, starting Andy Dalton over former No. 1 pick Bryce Young. But with Dalton facing an injury, Carolina is turning back to Young for help.
Andy Dalton has sustained a sprained thumb injury, and as a result, the Panthers are going to start Bryce Young in Week 8 against the Denver Broncos, per Joe Person of The Athletic.
Dalton was involved in a scary car accident early in the week and did not practice on Wednesday. Head coach Dave Canales provided insight into Dalton's status and Carolina's decision to start Young:
“[Dalton's accident was] a scary moment for sure. Everyone was okay. Everyone's healthy. Unfortunately in the accident, [Dalton] did sprain his thumb. So Bryce will be playing this week for us, and we'll be evaluating Andy day-to-day going into this week and see if we can get him up as the [QB2] on gameday,” Canales said, per Joe Person.
Dalton has done all he can to help the Panthers, but the team will enter Sunday's Broncos matchup on a four-game losing streak. Perhaps Bryce Young can help Carolina turn things around amid his return to the starting lineup.
Article Continues BelowYoung has had limited action in October. On the season, he has thrown for 299 yards and three interceptions.
Before news of Young's start surfaced, NFL Insider Dianna Russini spoke about the second-year Panthers QB being involved in trade rumors.
“I’m keeping an eye on Bryce Young,” Russini said. “I know teams called the Panthers when they benched him to see if that team would be open to maybe possibly trading right because what is this season about? The resurrection of the quarterback that was trashed to another team that becomes a treasure for a new one.”
Surely, Bryce Young and Carolina will make a valiant effort to spark some momentum midway through the season.