Panthers quarterback Bryce Young has been making headlines as he prepares for the upcoming preseason games with a newfound sense of comfort in the team’s new offensive scheme. After a challenging rookie season that saw him struggle on the field, Young is optimistic about the changes that have been implemented under new head coach Dave Canales.
Understanding the Transition
Young, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 draft, faced his fair share of challenges in his debut season. Finishing with a 2-14 record as a starter and ranking near the bottom of the league in passing categories, he knew that improvements were necessary for his sophomore campaign. With the departure of former coach Matt Rhule and the arrival of Canales, Young found himself in a position where he had to adapt to a new offensive system.
The transition to a new offense can be daunting for any quarterback, especially one as young as Young. However, the quarterback expressed his faith in the coaching staff’s decisions regarding his playing time in the preseason. Despite being held out of the first two exhibition games, Young remained supportive of the team’s strategies.
Trusting the Process
In a recent interview, Young emphasized his trust in the coaching staff and their ability to make informed decisions for the team’s benefit. He stated, “For me and for us (as a team), we trust whatever they want to do. Whatever their calls are, we are comfortable with that.” This level of trust and understanding between the quarterback and the coaching staff is crucial for the team’s success moving forward.
Canales, who has a track record of working with talented quarterbacks like Geno Smith and Baker Mayfield, brings a wealth of experience to the Panthers’ offense. Young acknowledged the significance of having a coach with Canales’ background and expressed confidence in his ability to guide the team to success.
Preparation and Progress
As the Panthers continue to install their offensive scheme, Young has been diligent in his preparation for the upcoming season. With a solid understanding of the playbook and the expectations placed on him, the young quarterback is ready to showcase his growth on the field.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his playing time in the final preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, Young remains unfazed. He stated, “I will be comfortable either way. I know they are not just waking up and rolling the dice. There is a reason for everything and they are very calculated in what they are doing.”
Canales echoed Young’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of strategic decision-making when it comes to player participation in preseason games. The coach mentioned that the health of the players around Young would play a significant role in determining his playing time.
Building Chemistry and Communication
As the Panthers look to solidify their roster and develop chemistry among the players, Canales emphasized the value of in-game reps for the starting lineup. While some teams have opted to play their quarterbacks in the preseason, others have taken a more cautious approach.
Canales has been impressed with Young’s progress in learning the offense and believes that the joint practices with the New York Jets have been beneficial for his development. He emphasized the importance of smooth execution and effective communication on the field, qualities that he will be looking for if Young takes the field in the final preseason game.
In conclusion, Bryce Young’s comfort in the new offense signals a positive shift for the Panthers as they prepare for the upcoming season. With the guidance of Coach Canales and the trust of the coaching staff, Young is poised to make significant strides in his sophomore campaign. As the team continues to fine-tune their offensive strategies and build chemistry on the field, all eyes will be on Young as he looks to lead the Panthers to success in the upcoming season.
