NFL Rumors: Panthers Didn't Properly Prepare Bryce Young, QB 'Didn't Stand a Chance'

The Carolina Panthers didn't create the ideal environment for quarterback Bryce Young to thrive in during his rookie season.

"Bryce really didn't stand a chance," said a source with direct knowledge of what was going on with the team, according to ESPN's David Newton.

After Young was selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft, many expected the former Alabama standout to deliver an exceptional inaugural season. That wasn't the case, as the 22-year-old completed just 59.8 percent of his throws for 2,877 yards in 16 starts.

He also racked up 11 touchdown passes compared to 10 interceptions, while the Panthers finished with a league-worst record of 2-15. While Young's struggles were apparent, it's also fair to question the coaching and personnel around him.

Head coach Frank Reich was fired after the Panthers got off to a 1-10 start, while offensive coordinator Thomas Brown wasn't retained by the team after new head coach Dave Canales was hired once the season concluded.

Newton noted that there was a "difference in philosophy" between Reich, Brown, and offensive line coach James Campen. In fact, the team used a pistol formation in Week 1 that wasn't implemented until the week before. This likely affected Young's preparation heading into his first career NFL start.

He was also consistently pressured in the pocket, taking 62 sacks in 2023 which represented the No. 2 mark among all quarterbacks. Running backs Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders both failed to average at least four yards per carry, while veteran Adam Theilen was the only receiver to surpass 550 yards.

Although Young's first season was disappointing compared to fellow rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, he could get his career back on track with an improved supporting cast and a coaching staff that's on the same page.