Two weeks into the 2024 NFL season, Bryce Young found himself at a crossroads. His Carolina Panthers started with two disappointing losses, and the crowd’s discontent was palpable during the home opener as fans expressed their frustration. In an unprecedented move, the 23-year-old became the first quarterback selected first overall in the Super Bowl era to be benched for performance reasons, not due to injury. It’s a moment that no athlete wants to face, and one that can shake the very foundation of their confidence.
This season, Young faces a pivotal turning point: proving that the Panthers made the right choice in selecting him two years ago. There’s a lot at stake—his performance could lead to a contract extension after this season, his third in a four-year rookie deal, which also includes a fifth-year option. Teams commonly exercise these options on quarterbacks who are showing promise as they look to secure long-term deals as they gear up for their fourth year in the league. Pressure doesn’t quite capture the weight of expectations resting on Young’s shoulders.
Yet, amidst the tough criticism and the mounting pressure to deliver, Young has committed to focusing not only on his game but also on his mental well-being. After the challenges of last year—a season that was far from what he had hoped—he’s determined to tackle all aspects of his performance. Last year was riddled with struggles, including games where he threw two interceptions, leading critics to question his height and arm strength. It’s easy for anyone on the sidelines to evaluate and dissect his play, but for Young, each mistake felt personal, like a weight he was meant to carry.
“I leaned on family, friends, and those I trust during this difficult time,” Young shared in a recent interview, reflecting on the rollercoaster of emotions he has experienced. Yet he recognizes that even amidst professional victories, mental health can still be a daunting challenge. It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply, especially among those who often feel the pressure to excel in their careers while maintaining their personal lives.
After being benched, Young made a notable comeback, reclaiming his starting role, although the Panthers ultimately finished the season with a 5-12 record. In a bittersweet twist, he shone brightly in the season finale against the Atlanta Falcons, throwing five touchdowns in a dramatic overtime victory. However, that dazzling performance doesn’t overshadow the reality that in two seasons, he secured only seven wins, a statistic that hangs over his head like a cloud.
Transitioning to the NFL has proven to be a steep learning curve for Young. He rose to the top of the football world in high school at Mater Dei High School, where he was recognized as the Gatorade Player of the Year in 2020. His college journey at Alabama was no less impressive, highlighted by winning the Heisman Trophy in 2021 and leading the Crimson Tide to multiple records, including the most single-season passing touchdowns. With accolades like these, the leap to professional football can feel like a harsh wake-up call—a reality check that can catch even the most talented athletes off guard.
These days, Young is striving to humanize the often-unreachable image of professional athletes, becoming part of a growing movement advocating for the importance of mental health. His hope is to inspire others to prioritize mental wellness, emphasizing that it deeply affects all areas of life—from work commitments to personal relationships.
“If you’re not okay on the inside, how can you be the person others need you to be?” he asked, spotlighting the nuances of leadership in his role. “I want to ensure I’m mentally fit so that I can make sound decisions for the team and navigate all aspects of my life. Everything is interconnected.”
As Young journeys through his career, he isn’t alone in this narrative. CJ Stroud, the Houston Texans quarterback drafted second overall in 2023, is also in the throes of his rookie contract. Young’s comparison to Stroud is inevitable, especially as the latter is poised to secure a lucrative extension that could reshape future quarterback contracts—an undeniable pressure point for Young’s upcoming negotiations.
Still, he remains focused on this season with a new sense of determination. The Panthers have bolstered their roster with a standout addition, former Arizona receiver Tetairoa McMillan, selected eighth overall. With McMillan’s arrival and some encouraging play towards the end of last season, there’s chatter among analysts that Young could be primed for a breakout season heading into 2025—a narrative he now has the chance to shape.
“I’m working on controlling the things in my realm,” he said, echoing a sentiment that many can relate to, regardless of their profession. Whether the expectations are high or low, what matters is striving to be the best version of oneself. “I just want to do everything I can to help my team achieve our goals.” Being a leader is tough, but by focusing on what he can control, Young is carving out his own path, one step at a time.
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