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Panthers rookie quarterback Bryce Young, the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has wasted no time making an impact in the team’s locker room, according to veteran players.
Young’s confidence and humility have stood out to his teammates, leaving a lasting impression on the veterans.
“He walks around with this kind of swag of: ‘Humble but I know I’m the s***'” Defensive end Brian Burns said. “He’s got it, but he’s humble with it.”
Young’s positive demeanor has also caught the attention of his teammates. Burns added, “He’s always happy. It’s hard not to like that kid.”, via ESPN’s David Newton.
Brian Burns on Bryce Young: "He's always happy."
"It's hard not to like that kid.pic.twitter.com/HhtxzAL4I2
(🎥 @scott_fowler)
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) June 17, 2023
During the Panthers’ mandatory minicamp this week, the veteran players had the opportunity to see Young in action for the first time. According to reports, the rookie quarterback has impressed with his skills and attitude.
Carolina made a significant investment by acquiring the top pick in the 2023 NFL Draft to select Young, and early indications suggest that it could pay off. Head coach Frank Reich has already promoted the 21-year-old to the first team during organized team activities, and he plans to have Young ready for training camp.
The young signal-caller has already gained the confidence of his teammates, as veteran wide receiver DJ Chark expressed his belief in Young’s ability to lead the team to success.
“Everybody is here for him,” Chark said. “And we believe he can take us to some really high places.”
Veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen, who joined the Panthers this offseason, praised Young’s pocket presence during OTAs.
“There’s so much talk about him, so there’s not a whole lot of surprise,” Thielen said. “For me, it’s probably been his movement in the pocket, his ability to get the ball out on time but do that in a way that isn’t just, like, sitting in one stagnant spot.”
Thielen emphasized Young’s practice habits and his ability to simulate game situations even during non-contact practices. Young’s composure in the pocket has been particularly impressive to Thielen.
Young displayed remarkable poise throughout his collegiate career at the University of Alabama, where he amassed 8,200 passing yards with almost 80 touchdowns in 27 games as a starter. His stellar performance earned him the Heisman Trophy as a true sophomore in 2021.
With Bryce Young’s exceptional talent and the support of his teammates, the Panthers are entering a new era with optimism and high expectations for the rookie quarterback.
Only time will tell how far he can take the team, but for now, the future looks promising in Carolina.