Bryce Young Injury Update: Will Panthers QB Play in Week 8 Against Bills?

Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young will miss Week 8 against the Buffalo Bills due to a high ankle sprain suffered in the team’s 13-6 win over the New York Jets. The injury, confirmed by multiple reports including ESPN’s Adam Schefter and NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, means veteran Andy Dalton will take over as the starter on Sunday.

Young, who left the game in the second half, was seen working on the sidelines during practice this week but did not participate in team drills on Wednesday or Thursday. His absence comes just as the Panthers had gained momentum, riding a three-game win streak and their best record since 2019.

Bryce Young’s Injury Status and Recovery Timeline

NFL insider Tom Pelissero reported that Young’s MRI confirmed a high ankle sprain, typically an injury that sidelines players for multiple weeks. “Panthers QB Bryce Young suffered a high ankle sprain on Sunday, an MRI revealed, and he is expected to miss this week’s game against the Bills,” Pelissero stated. ESPN’s Adam Schefter later confirmed that Young did not practice for the second straight day, making his Week 8 return impossible.

Head coach Dave Canales has already indicated that the team will lean into a ground-heavy approach with Dalton under center. “Right now, it’s running the football,” Canales told reporters. “Andy can handle all those things and the pass game, but we’ve got to stay within the core of our system.”

With Chuba Hubbard and Rico Dowdle both healthy, Carolina is expected to rely on its running backs to carry the offense. Against the Jets, Hubbard had 14 carries for 31 yards while Dowdle added 79 yards on 17 attempts. That formula could work well against a Buffalo defense currently allowing over 156 rushing yards per game — the second-most in the league.

Young’s absence will be felt, as the former No. 1 overall pick was showing signs of improvement before the setback. He completed 15 of 25 passes for 138 yards and one touchdown before exiting Sunday’s game. In contrast, Dalton went 4-for-7 for 60 yards in relief, showing his readiness to step in once again.

Panthers’ Outlook Without Bryce Young

The Panthers, sitting at 4-3, face a critical stretch in their schedule. Their recent success has been built on strong defensive performances and disciplined offensive play. Losing their young quarterback, however, introduces uncertainty. High ankle sprains typically require two to four weeks of recovery, depending on severity, meaning Young could miss multiple games.

Andy Dalton brings valuable experience and familiarity with Canales’ system. Last season, he filled in for Young during a similar stretch, making five starts and throwing for 989 yards, seven touchdowns, and six interceptions while completing 66% of his passes. His steadiness may allow Carolina to remain competitive until Young returns.

Bryce Young’s injury update remains one of the biggest storylines heading into Week 8. While the Panthers hope their momentum continues, all eyes will be on his recovery timeline and potential return in November.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is Bryce Young’s injury?

Bryce Young suffered a high ankle sprain during the Panthers’ Week 7 win over the New York Jets.

Q2: Will Bryce Young play in Week 8?

No. He has been ruled out for Week 8 against the Buffalo Bills, with Andy Dalton starting in his place.

Q3: How long will Bryce Young be out?

High ankle sprains usually require two to four weeks of recovery, depending on severity. His exact timeline is still uncertain.

Q4: Who is replacing Bryce Young?

Veteran quarterback Andy Dalton will start for the Carolina Panthers while Young recovers.

Q5: How have the Panthers performed this season?

Carolina is 4-3, winning three straight games for the first time since 2021, marking their strongest start since 2019.