Panthers QB Bryce Young will start this weekend's game vs. the Broncos, HC Dave Canales announced on Wednesday. QB Andy Dalton sprained a thumb in a car accident earlier this week. He'll be evaluated "day to day," Canales said, and might be available as Young's backup on Sunday.
2024 Fantasy Football Impact
So it took a car accident to get Young back under center.
The former No. 1 overall pick was a disaster in two starts to open this season, totaling 245 passing yards, 0 TDs, and three INTs on a 55% completion rate and 4.4 yards per attempt.
The Panthers scored 10 and 3 points in those two games. They've averaged 19.4 points over the last five weeks with Dalton -- although that's sunk to 12.3 over the last 3.
Still, Young projects to be a tangible downgrade for Carolina's pass catchers and the offense in general. The matchup vs. a Broncos defense that ranks third in both points and yards allowed per game won't help.
Other Winners and Losers
WR Diontae Johnson becomes a shakier Week 8 fantasy play with Young. And he was already looking shaky coming off last week's one-catch dud. He played through multiple injuries in that one, so we'll need to keep an eye on his health this week.
RB Chuba Hubbard also takes a hit with the QB change, although his volume projection is strong enough to stay in most fantasy lineups.