CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Bryce Young will return as the Carolina Panthers' starting quarterback against the Denver Broncos on Sunday following Andy Dalton's injury.
Dalton sustained a sprained thumb on his right throwing hand during a car crash on Tuesday in Charlotte, according to team officials. He did not practice on Wednesday and is currently listed as day-to-day.
“Bryce has been an absolute stud through this whole process,” said Panthers coach Dave Canales. Young, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, will have another chance to demonstrate his abilities as the team approaches the Nov. 5 trade deadline. He has a record of 2-16 as a starter and was benched earlier this season due to performance issues.
Young indicated he has not been informed about his starting status beyond this week. Canales announced the decision to start him after Dalton's medical evaluation.
Dalton, who was driving with his family when the crash occurred, stated no one was seriously injured, including the other driver. He expressed gratitude that his family is safe and acknowledged the experience's unsettling nature.
Additionally, the Panthers welcomed veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen back to practice after he missed the last four games due to a hamstring injury.
The Broncos are noted for their strong pass defense, currently ranked fifth in the league.