When the Carolina Panthers selected Bryce Young with the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, they envisioned a cerebral quarterback with pinpoint accuracy and an innate ability to process defenses. However, concerns about his size and athleticism led many to question whether he could survive the rigors of the NFL, let alone thrive. Now, in his second season, Young has silenced critics by adding a key element to his arsenal: the ability to scramble and make plays on the move.
This newfound dynamic has elevated his game, but it’s also sparked controversy. Has Young compromised his traditional quarterback identity in favor of improvisation, or is this evolution exactly what Carolina needs to rebuild around their young star?
Year 1 Struggles
Bryce Young’s rookie season was riddled with growing pains. Behind an underperforming offensive line and a lackluster receiving corps, he was forced to rely heavily on his pre-snap reads and pocket presence. Defensive coordinators, however, quickly keyed in on his tendencies, collapsing the pocket and forcing him into uncomfortable situations.
Young finished the 2023 season with modest statistics, but his lack of mobility often turned pressure into sacks or errant throws. Critics argued that his inability—or unwillingness—to scramble limited the Panthers’ offensive ceiling and exposed the team’s glaring weaknesses. The promise of a franchise quarterback seemed far off, with many wondering if the Panthers had gambled on the wrong player.
The Year 2 Transformation
Fast forward to Year 2, and Bryce Young looks like a different player. While his arm talent and decision-making remain his calling cards, he’s added a new layer to his game: mobility. Young has shown a surprising ability to extend plays with his legs, escaping collapsing pockets and turning broken plays into positive gains.
In a Week 5 showdown against the New Orleans Saints, Young delivered one of his most memorable performances to date. Facing relentless pressure, he scrambled out of the pocket multiple times, converting critical third downs and keeping drives alive. On one play, he evaded two pass rushers, rolled to his right, and fired a 25-yard dart to Adam Thielen for a touchdown. It was a moment that showcased not just his athleticism but his poise under pressure.
Through the first half of his sophomore season, Young has racked up over 300 rushing yards and added several highlight-reel plays that demonstrate his ability to make something out of nothing. This shift in style has given the Panthers’ offense a spark it sorely lacked in 2023.
A Double-Edged Sword
While Young’s scrambling has been a revelation, it hasn’t come without criticism. Purists argue that his increased reliance on mobility signals a deviation from his natural skill set as a pocket passer. Instead of staying calm and delivering throws under pressure, Young is now more likely to abandon the pocket, raising questions about whether this approach is sustainable in the long run.
NFL history is littered with mobile quarterbacks who eventually succumbed to injuries or declined once their athleticism waned. At just 5’10” and 204 pounds, Young’s size remains a concern. Can his smaller frame endure the physical toll of frequent scrambling and improvisation? Critics warn that while this evolution may pay dividends in the short term, it could jeopardize his longevity.
Moreover, some believe that Young’s scrambling highlights deeper issues within Carolina’s offense. The Panthers’ offensive line has struggled mightily in pass protection, and the receiving corps still lacks a true deep threat. Young’s ability to make plays on the move may be masking these deficiencies, preventing the front office from addressing them adequately.
The Impact on the Panthers
Despite the controversy surrounding Young’s evolution, there’s no denying the positive impact it has had on the Panthers’ offense. His mobility has opened up new dimensions, forcing defenses to account for him as both a passer and a runner. This dual-threat capability has also created opportunities for the team’s playmakers, as defenders are often caught out of position while trying to contain Young.
In addition, his scrambling ability has injected excitement into a fan base that has endured years of mediocrity. While the Panthers’ record in Year 2 still reflects the struggles of a rebuilding team, Young’s growth offers a glimmer of hope for the future.
What’s Next for Bryce Young?
As Bryce Young continues to develop, the key will be finding a balance between his natural pocket-passing instincts and his newfound mobility. The Panthers must also do their part by bolstering the offensive line and surrounding him with better weapons. If they can provide Young with the support he needs, there’s no reason he can’t become one of the league’s most dangerous quarterbacks.
However, the debate will persist. Is Young’s scrambling a necessary adaptation to his environment, or is it a risky departure from what made him a top prospect? Only time will tell whether this evolution will define his career or derail it.
Conclusion
Bryce Young’s ability to scramble and make plays has transformed his game in Year 2, showcasing his adaptability and resilience. While this evolution has sparked debate, it’s also given the Panthers a reason to believe they finally have their franchise quarterback.
For now, Young’s mobility is both a blessing and a curse—an asset that highlights his potential while exposing the challenges the Panthers must overcome. Whether this transformation leads to long-term success or sparks further controversy, one thing is certain: Bryce Young is no longer the quarterback critics doubted after his rookie season. He’s a player who is evolving before our eyes, redefining what it means to be the future of the Carolina Panthers.