Panthers rookie QB Bryce Young’s light preseason workload doesn’t spell trouble, but raises questions about his readiness for the regular season.

Carolina Panthers Rookie QB Bryce Young’s Light Preseason Workload

Should it be a Concern?

By

The preseason is a time for teams to evaluate their players, test strategies, and build chemistry before the regular season begins. However, for Carolina Panthers rookie quarterback Bryce Young, his preseason workload has been light, leading to questions about his readiness for the upcoming regular season.

Young has only thrown a dozen passes in his first two preseason games and has struggled to find a consistent rhythm. Some of the blame can be placed on the offensive line’s inability to protect him, but another factor is the lack of prolonged reps for the young quarterback.

In the Panthers‘ recent game against the New York Giants, Young played just two series. His first series resulted in a three-and-out, while the second drive was a slow-paced field-goal scoring journey. Young completed 3 of 6 passes for 35 yards, which was an improvement from his previous outing but still not impressive.

With only one preseason game remaining, Young may not even have a chance to play in it. The coaching staff and front office might opt to field a healthy squad in Week 1 of the regular season, which could mean Young misses out on valuable opportunities to build chemistry with his offensive line and playmakers.

Young himself acknowledges the limited opportunities he has had and understands the importance of making them count. He emphasized the urgency of every situation and the need to be the best he can be, even with the limitations of the preseason.

As a rookie, Young is still adjusting to the speed and complexity of NFL defenses. He has been sacked twice and hit hard on multiple occasions during his brief time on the field. While it is important to protect a young quarterback from unnecessary hits in the preseason, it is equally crucial for him to gain experience and learn to navigate the challenges of the NFL.

The decision to limit Young’s preseason workload ultimately rests with the coaching staff, and his trust in them is commendable. However, it is crucial for the team to balance caution with the need for Young’s development. The regular season is fast-approaching, and Young needs to be prepared mentally, physically, and strategically to take on the challenges that lie ahead.

The Importance of Preseason Workload

Preseason games serve as a crucial stepping stone for players, especially rookies, as they transition from college to professional football. It provides an opportunity to acclimate to the speed of the game, understand the nuances of the playbook, and develop chemistry with teammates.

For quarterbacks, in particular, the preseason offers a chance to build rapport with the offensive line, receivers, and running backs. It allows them to fine-tune their timing, adjust to different game situations, and gain confidence in executing the team’s offensive schemes.

A limited preseason workload for a rookie quarterback like Bryce Young can hinder his development and readiness for the regular season. The lack of reps and opportunities to face different defensive schemes can lead to a slow start and difficulties in adjusting to the demands of the NFL. It may also affect the cohesion and communication with his offensive teammates on the field.

It is not uncommon for rookie quarterbacks to struggle in their first season, but a well-managed preseason workload can mitigate some of these challenges. Quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert benefited from substantial playing time in the preseason, which contributed to their successful transitions to the regular season.

The Delicate Balance

Finding the right balance between protecting a young quarterback and providing him with the necessary experience is a delicate task for NFL coaches. They must weigh the risks of injury and physical wear and tear against the need for on-field development and growth.

Coaches must also consider individual circumstances. Some rookies may require more preseason action to develop, while others may be better suited by additional practice time and film study. Ultimately, the decision should be tailored to each player’s specific needs and the team’s overall goals.

In the case of Bryce Young, the Panthers coaching staff should carefully evaluate his progress and assess his readiness for the regular season. While it is understandable to prioritize his health and well-being, it is crucial not to overlook the importance of game experience in his development.

Editorial – Maximizing Young’s Potential

As the regular season approaches, the Carolina Panthers must make a decision regarding Bryce Young’s workload in the remaining preseason game. While it is tempting to err on the side of caution and protect their young quarterback, it is equally essential to maximize his potential and provide him with the necessary experience to succeed.

The coaching staff should consider giving Young significant playing time in the final preseason game against the Detroit Lions. This would allow him to gain valuable in-game experience, work on timing and chemistry with his teammates, and become more comfortable with the offensive system.

Of course, precautions should be taken to ensure Young’s safety and well-being. The offensive line must provide adequate protection, and the coaching staff should have a clear plan to limit hits and unnecessary risks. However, it is crucial not to shield Young entirely from the realities of the NFL and deprive him of the learning opportunities that come with preseason games.

Young’s development will be instrumental in the Panthers‘ success this season and in their long-term plans. By striking the right balance between caution and experience, the coaching staff can help Young thrive and reach his full potential as the team’s future quarterback.

In conclusion, while Bryce Young’s light preseason workload may not be a cause for immediate concern, it is crucial for the Carolina Panthers to carefully evaluate his progress and make informed decisions about his playing time. Balancing caution with the need for development will be key in ensuring Young’s readiness for the upcoming regular season and maximizing his potential in the long run.