Bryce Young Injury Update: Panthers QB to Miss Time with High Ankle Sprain

Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young is expected to miss at least one game after suffering a high ankle sprain during Sunday’s 13-6 victory over the New York Jets. The injury occurred in the third quarter, forcing Young to exit the game and paving the way for veteran Andy Dalton to take over under center.

NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero reported that Young is likely to miss Carolina’s Week 8 home matchup against the Buffalo Bills, with no precise timetable yet for his return. The setback is a major blow for the Panthers, who are seeking to maintain momentum after climbing above .500 for the first time since 2019.

Panthers Lose Bryce Young to High Ankle Sprain

The injury happened on a third-quarter sack against the Jets. Young, who had been managing the offense efficiently, was unable to return to the game. Andy Dalton, the 15-year veteran, replaced him and finished with 60 passing yards on 4-of-7 attempts. Dalton is now expected to start in Week 8 against Buffalo, a formidable AFC contender.

Head coach Dave Canales said the team is still gathering medical opinions before finalizing a recovery timeline. “We’re taking all the information in,” Canales explained. “We’re going to look at him when we get home some more and see where we are.” This suggests the possibility that Young could miss more than one game depending on how his ankle responds to treatment.

High ankle sprains are known for lengthy recovery times compared to standard ankle injuries, sometimes sidelining players for three to six weeks. The Panthers have not ruled Young out beyond Week 8, but they are proceeding cautiously with their 2023 No. 1 overall pick. Missing multiple games could significantly affect Carolina’s offensive rhythm and playoff hopes.

The Panthers’ quarterback depth chart is thin beyond Dalton. Rookie Hendon Hooker, a former third-round pick by the Detroit Lions, is on the practice squad and could be elevated if depth becomes a concern.

Carolina’s Season Outlook Without Bryce Young

Despite losing their starting quarterback, the Panthers are riding a wave of momentum. Sunday’s win over the Jets marked their third straight victory, improving their record to 4-3. It’s the first time since 2019 the team has been above .500 this late in the season, a sign of progress under first-year head coach Dave Canales.

Carolina’s offense has been steadily improving with Young at the helm. His chemistry with key playmakers has been central to the team’s recent surge. However, Dalton brings valuable experience and has a track record of steady play in relief roles, which could help the Panthers stay competitive until Young returns.

The upcoming matchup against the Buffalo Bills presents one of Carolina’s toughest challenges yet. Buffalo’s aggressive defense ranks among the league’s best, and Dalton will need to rely on quick reads and efficient execution to keep the Panthers in contention. Carolina’s offensive line will also face added pressure to protect Dalton and open up the run game to ease the load on the passing attack.

Bryce Young’s injury is a pivotal moment in Carolina’s 2025 season. While the team has shown resilience, his absence will test their depth and adaptability. The Panthers hope their young star can recover swiftly and return to lead their playoff push.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What injury did Bryce Young suffer?

Bryce Young sustained a high ankle sprain in the third quarter of the Panthers’ Week 7 win over the Jets, forcing him to leave the game.

Q2: How long will Bryce Young be out?

There is no official timetable yet, but high ankle sprains often require several weeks of recovery. He is expected to miss at least the Week 8 game against Buffalo.

Q3: Who will start for the Panthers in Week 8?

Veteran quarterback Andy Dalton will start against the Buffalo Bills while Bryce Young recovers from his injury.

Q4: How is Carolina performing this season?

The Panthers improved to 4-3 after defeating the Jets, marking their first time above .500 this late in a season since 2019.

Q5: Could Bryce Young miss multiple games?

Yes. Depending on the severity of the sprain, Young could miss more than one game, though the team has not provided a definitive timeline.