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Carolina Panthers General Manager Scott Fitterer has declared veteran Andy Dalton as the team’s starting quarterback right now heading into the season over 1st overall pick Bryce Young.
Fitterer made the surprising announcement during an interview with NBC’s ProFootballTalk, leaving fans and analysts curious about the team’s decision-making process.
Fitterer clarified that the Panthers’ first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Bryce Young, would eventually replace Dalton but emphasized that there is no fixed timeline for this transition. The coaching staff, comprising of Frank Reich, Jim Caldwell and Thomas Brown, will play a crucial role in determining when Young is ready to take the reins.
It is worth noting that Dalton has previously been in a similar situation. Two years ago, while playing for the Chicago Bears, Dalton started the 2021 season ahead of then-rookie first-round pick quarterback Justin Fields. However, Fields eventually took over as the starter that season.
During the interview, Fitterer stated, “We’re going to rely on our coaches…to decide when it’s right. We don’t have a timeline. We’re not saying, ‘Hey, this guy’s gonna start the first game or we’re not going to play him at all this year.’ When the time is right or we felt like he’s got enough of a mastery of the offense where he can go out and operate this and be successful, that’s when he’ll be out there.”
Fitterer also highlighted the team’s intention behind signing Dalton, emphasizing his experience and understanding of his role. The Panthers’ general manager expressed confidence in Dalton’s ability to play good football, considering his past experience as a rookie quarterback. As a result, the current plan is for Dalton to enter the season as the starter, with Young and other contenders such as Matt Corral engaging in an open competition to earn the starting role when they are ready.
Fitterer’s announcement has ignited a discussion among fans and experts regarding the team’s quarterback strategy. Some view Dalton as a reliable veteran who can provide stability to the offense, while others eagerly await the opportunity to witness the promising talents of Bryce Young.
As the Panthers prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on the quarterback position, monitoring the progress of both Dalton and Young. It remains to be seen how the competition will unfold and when Young will assume the role of the team’s starting quarterback.