T hough it was entirely according to plan, Carolina Panthers QB Bryce Young didn't play but two series in the opening preseason game against the Cleveland Browns. He left with a 7-0 lead after one exceptional drive, but that immediately evaporated and turned into a 30-10 loss.

F or Bryce Young, his upcoming 2025 season is his prove-it year for the Carolina Panthers . Entering Year 3 of his rookie deal, the former No. 1 overall pick needs to show more of his positive development reflected down the stretch last fall to warrant a long-term extension in the future.

Knowing how dominant he was at Alabama, the Panthers may have met their match in terms of their QB’s ceiling. Benching Bryce Young was the best decision the Panthers ever made. It may not have benefited them in the short term,