Bryce Young Injury Update: Will the Panthers Star QB Miss Week 8 vs. Bills?

The Carolina Panthers have finalized their quarterback plan for Week 8. Andy Dalton will start against the Buffalo Bills, regardless of Bryce Young’s availability, according to a team statement on Friday.

Young is still recovering from a sprained ankle he suffered during Carolina’s 13-6 victory over the New York Jets last Sunday. The injury occurred in the third quarter when Jets defensive tackle Jowon Briggs stepped on his ankle while sacking him. Young limped off the field and did not return for the remainder of the game.

Panthers Confirm Quarterback Decision for Week 8

Head coach Dave Canales and the Panthers coaching staff decided to keep Young sidelined this week to allow full recovery. Dalton’s experience makes him the logical choice to lead the offense in a crucial road matchup against the Bills. Carolina is currently 4-3, already matching last year’s total of four wins, and wants to avoid any setbacks with its young quarterback.

Before leaving last week’s game, Young completed 15 of 25 passes for 138 yards and a touchdown, showing solid command of the offense. This season, he has thrown for 1,150 yards, 10 touchdowns, and five interceptions with a 61.8% completion rate. The 2023 top draft pick has shown steady progress in his second NFL season, improving his pocket awareness and chemistry with receivers.

Dalton, meanwhile, is no stranger to the starting role. Last season, he filled in for Young and threw for 989 yards, six touchdowns, and six interceptions. The 36-year-old veteran’s ability to manage games and operate within the system gives Carolina confidence heading into Week 8.

How Bryce Young’s Absence Could Affect the Panthers

Without Young, the Panthers’ offensive rhythm will rely more heavily on short passes and the running game. Running backs Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders are expected to see an increased workload, while wide receivers Adam Thielen and Jonathan Mingo could benefit from Dalton’s accurate short-range passing style.

On defense, Carolina will depend on pressure from Brian Burns and Derrick Brown to slow down Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen. The Bills enter the game as favorites, but the Panthers have been competitive in recent weeks, winning two straight games before this matchup.

With Bryce Young recovering from his ankle injury, the Panthers are trusting Andy Dalton’s leadership to keep their winning momentum alive. Young’s return will depend on how quickly he regains full mobility and strength in the coming days.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Bryce Young injury update?

Bryce Young suffered a sprained ankle in Week 7 and will not start in Week 8. Andy Dalton will lead the Panthers against the Bills.

Q2: How long will Bryce Young be out?

The Panthers have not announced a specific return date. His recovery will be monitored on a week-to-week basis.

Q3: Who will start for the Panthers vs. the Bills?

Andy Dalton will start at quarterback in Week 8, regardless of Bryce Young’s game-day status.

Q4: How did Bryce Young get injured?

He sprained his ankle after being stepped on by Jets defensive tackle Jowon Briggs during a sack in the third quarter of last week’s game.

Q5: What are Bryce Young’s stats for the season?

Through seven games, he has thrown for 1,150 yards, 10 touchdowns, and five interceptions with a 61.8% completion rate.