Former Alabama quarterback Bryce Young is beginning to show the promise that made him the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, rebounding from a rocky start to his sophomore NFL season with the Carolina Panthers.
Young’s rookie year was a struggle. He finished near the bottom of the league in major quarterback metrics, including throwing for just 11 touchdowns against 11 interceptions. Those struggles seemed to carry over into 2024, as Young was benched after two disastrous performances to start the season. Veteran Andy Dalton took over, leading to speculation that Young might be labeled a draft bust.
However, a week-eight injury to Dalton forced Young back into action, and he seized the opportunity. In his return, Young put together a respectable performance against Denver, which set the stage for a game-winning drive the following week against the Saints. Since then, he has shown steady improvement, posting some of his best numbers in losses to playoff-caliber teams like Kansas City and Tampa Bay.
Since reclaiming the starting job, Young has thrown for 1,082 yards, six touchdowns, and three interceptions, demonstrating a newfound ability to handle pressure and stretch the field. His success on deep passes has improved significantly, and he has become more comfortable under pressure, completing 26 of 56 passes for 395 yards and two touchdowns in such situations.
Key to Young’s development has been Carolina’s improved running game and increased use of play-action, a hallmark of his success at Alabama. The Panthers have already surpassed their rushing touchdown total from 2023 and have increased play-action usage to 23.7%, helping Young settle into a rhythm.
While the Panthers sit at 3-9, Young’s growth is a bright spot. As he continues to adjust, 2025 could be the year he fully realizes his potential, giving hope to Carolina fans eager to see “Alabama Bryce” take over the NFL.
