The Carolina Panthers are entering the regular season with optimism about Bryce Young’s development after a strong showing in training camp and a promising preseason performance against the Buffalo Bills.
Young, the first overall pick in 2023, completed 6 of 8 passes for 70 yards, leading an 85-yard touchdown drive that ended with an 8-yard pass to tight end Jordan Matthews.
Although the performance was against Buffalo’s backup players, with coach Sean McDermott resting his starters, it provided further confidence for Panthers coach Dave Canales in Young’s progress.
After a challenging rookie season where Young went 2-14 as a starter and ranked low in passing categories, Canales noted significant improvements in Young’s understanding of the game, particularly in his grasp of timing and rhythm.
The Panthers have been emphasizing the importance of good footwork with their quarterbacks, and Canales observed that this focus paid off during the game.
He highlighted how Young’s preparation allowed him to deliver a precise touchdown pass to Matthews because he was ready to throw at the right moment.
Young’s appearance against the Bills was his first preseason action after sitting out previous games against the New England Patriots and New York Jets.
Canales was particularly impressed by Young’s ability to extend a play on a fourth-and-3 from Buffalo’s 46-yard line, where he scrambled and found Diontae Johnson for a 17-yard gain.
Canales also praised third-string quarterback Jack Plummer, who completed 21 of 29 passes for 278 yards and two touchdowns against the Bills. Plummer’s performance has made the decision on whether to keep a third quarterback on the roster more challenging for the team.
As the Panthers prepare to make their roster cuts on Tuesday, Canales acknowledged that the wide receiver position will be the most difficult to decide on, calling it the “strongest group” on the team.
Johnson, acquired from the Pittsburgh Steelers, and Adam Thielen are expected to be the starters, but the team is also excited about first-round pick Xavier Legette, along with Jonathan Mingo and Terrace Marshall, who both had strong camps.
Wide receiver Ihmir Smith-Marsette, coming off a solid season and showing potential as a returner, is dealing with a foot injury that could affect his roster status.
He is expected to consult with a medical specialist soon. Canales mentioned the possibility of keeping seven wide receivers on the 53-man roster due to the impressive depth at the position.
Overall, the Panthers are encouraged by the progress of their players and are carefully considering how to finalize their roster.