The Carolina Panthers face a pivotal decision regarding their rookie quarterback, Bryce Young, as they prepare for their season finale against the Atlanta Falcons. After spending five weeks on the bench, Young has emerged as a standout performer in the NFL, particularly since Week 9, raising questions about his playing status for the upcoming game. Although the Panthers have little to gain from the match, they have the opportunity to spoil the Falcons' playoff hopes.
One argument for resting Young is his potential risk of injury. At a smaller stature, he has shown resilience against hits, but the Panthers’ offensive line is currently compromised, with several key players on the injury report. The team allowed an alarming 68.6% pressure rate last week, which could put Young in jeopardy against a formidable Falcons pass rush. Given the injuries affecting the running game and offensive line, sitting Young may seem prudent to protect the franchise's future.
Conversely, the Panthers lack offensive options without Young on the field. His performance last week demonstrated that he is crucial for moving the ball, as he accounted for a significant portion of the team’s passing yards. The alternative quarterbacks, Andy Dalton and Jack Plummer, are less capable of leading the offense effectively. Moreover, Young's continued development is essential, not just for his chemistry with the current roster but also for building rapport with rookie pass-catchers. Therefore, despite the risks, the Panthers should opt to play Young in the season finale to ensure he gains valuable experience and maintains the team’s offensive competitiveness.
