NFL Trade Rumors: Panthers Considering Bryce Young Trade?

The Carolina Panthers' decision to bench second-year quarterback Bryce Young after an 0-2 start to the 2024 season has ignited speculation about his future with the team, particularly the possibility of a trade. 

Young, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has struggled mightily, completing just 55.4% of his passes for 245 yards, no touchdowns, and three interceptions. 

Despite these struggles, head coach Dave Canales downplayed trade rumors, stating, "That’s not something we're really considering," and emphasizing the team's focus on developing their young quarterback. 

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler echoed this, saying, "I don’t get the sense Carolina plans to trade him right now," but acknowledged that benchings can often cast doubt on a player’s future.

This is the play that got Bryce Young benched

He's literally staring at a wide open receiver for what should've been a huge gain. Let it rip

Instead, he gets sacked

You can tell with the body language of Jonathan Mingo here, too pic.twitter.com/7o0zhgRn3C

— JaguarGator9 (@JaguarGator9NFL) September 18, 2024

The benching of Young in favor of veteran Andy Dalton, however, has only fueled speculation. 

Dalton, 36, is viewed as a short-term option rather than a long-term solution, which leaves questions about Young’s standing within the organization. 

Some analysts, like Chase Daniel, have even suggested potential trade scenarios, such as a multi-team deal involving the Los Angeles Rams, where Young could get a fresh start. 

Daniel floated the idea of a complex trade that would see Matthew Stafford land in Miami and the Panthers receiving future draft picks in exchange for Young, though the current market value for the struggling quarterback remains low.

Baker Mayfield was asked about Bryce Young's benching in Carolina, and he explained how tough playing quarterback is, especially when the supporting cast isn’t great.

"His story is far, far from finished."

Baker played in Carolina, is a former No. 1 pick and eventually bounced… pic.twitter.com/4iLBfHNPmP

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) September 18, 2024

For now, the Panthers appear committed to Young’s development, with Canales reinforcing the importance of growth even while on the bench. "We have a great situation with our quarterbacks right now," Canales said.

While trade rumors persist, it seems unlikely that the Panthers will move on from Young immediately, as they hope the young quarterback can regain his confidence and potentially return to the starting lineup later in the season.

Photo Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images