Bryce Young has always been synonymous with winning. From his standout days as a high school quarterback in California to clinching the Heisman Trophy and a national championship with Alabama, success was woven into his DNA. But when Young stepped into the NFL with the Carolina Panthers, he faced a challenge unlike any before.
In a candid conversation on The Pivot with Ryan Clark, Young shared a pivotal moment in his career - the day he was benched after Week 2 of his sophomore season. His rookie year under head coach Frank Reich was rocky, with the Panthers managing just two wins. Determined to turn things around, Young spent the offseason trying to bring stability to a turbulent environment, learning new systems and adapting to fresh expectations under a new head coach, Dave Canales.
Young's first year saw him sacked 62 times, a daunting stat that ranks seventh in NFL history, just shy of David Carr's record 76 sacks in 2003. Despite improvements in the offensive line with the addition of Robert Hunt, the lingering effects of those hits seemed to haunt Young's play, making him cautious on the field.
Then came the news that shook him - he was no longer the starting quarterback. Andy Dalton was taking over.
In a moment of reflection and uncertainty, Young found himself driving aimlessly, eventually setting his GPS for Atlanta, though he had no real intention of going there. It was a moment of vulnerability we can all relate to.
Ironically, Atlanta later became the stage for Young's redemption. In subsequent matchups against the Falcons, he delivered some of his finest performances, dismantling a division rival that had inadvertently become a symbol of his struggles.
When Dalton was sidelined due to a car accident later that season, Young seized his chance. His response in those final two months was a testament to his resilience and growth.
This season, Young led the Panthers to eight victories and an NFC South title, pushing a Super Bowl favorite, the Los Angeles Rams, to the brink in a Wild Card showdown. While he may not be the largest quarterback on the field or a one-man show, Young has emerged as the leader this team needs.
With the right pieces beginning to fall into place, the Panthers might be on the verge of making a significant impact in the league next season. Bryce Young’s journey is a compelling reminder of the power of perseverance and leadership.