In preparation for the upcoming season, Carolina Panthers’ new head coach Dave Canales is taking a nuanced approach to quarterback Bryce Young’s development. Addressing concerns about the team’s last-place offense in 2023, Canales emphasized building an offense that aligns with Young’s strengths rather than aiming to “fix” him.
During the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, Canales dismissed the notion of needing to “fix” Young, highlighting the importance of creating a cohesive offense focused on smart decision-making, ball security, explosive plays, and protection against defensive pressures. Canales stressed the need for Young to simply contribute his part to the team’s collective effort.
Despite Young’s struggles during the previous season, Canales expressed confidence in the young quarterback’s abilities. While acknowledging the challenges Young faced, including a high sack count and inconsistent performance, Canales also recognized Young’s potential, citing moments of promise throughout the season.
Canales, who has a track record of quarterback development with previous successes like Geno Smith and Baker Mayfield, aims to strike a balance between reinforcing Young’s strengths and addressing areas for improvement. With a specific plan in mind for Young’s development, Canales is focused on tangible and targeted strategies to enhance the quarterback’s performance.
As the Panthers seek to turn their fortunes around, Canales believes in building an offense tailored to Young’s skills, establishing a clear identity and core for the team. Canales’s approach underscores the importance of maximizing Young’s talents to elevate the Panthers’ offensive prowess and steer the team towards success in the upcoming season.
