Quarterback Bryce Young has shared his positive feelings about the team spirit within the Carolina Panthers locker room after Dave Canales was brought on board as head coach.
Bryce, who was a top pick in the 2023 draft, had a tough first year with the team as the Panthers ended up having the worst record in the NFL. The young quarterback's stats showed 11 touchdowns to 10 interceptions in his debut season as he struggled to live up to expectations in his debut campaign.
Big things were expected from Young in 2023, especially after he broke records for most passing yards in a single game (559) and won the Heisman Trophy while at Alabama. But his progress seemed to stall in his inaugural term in the NFL and the team's poor performance led to Frank Reich losing his job halfway through the season.
However, Bryce thinks that there is an increased feeling of solidarity in the group amid former Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Canales' appointment as head coach. Talking to TMZ, he explained how the criticism they faced last season has actually helped bring the Carolina players closer together.
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Opening up on how the Panthers have become a stronger team this year in spite of their on field struggles, he said: "I feel like I've grown - I've learned. I'm excited to improve this offseason. Get better at some things - I'm excited for year two."
Some observers were left slightly surprised when Canales got the job as the head coach, especially as he has never held this post before in the NFL. Moreover, he was only in charge of calling plays in Florida for one season before the Panthers' boss David Temper gave him the big role.
That said, Canales did come in for regular plaudits in 2023 after he helped quarterback Baker Mayfield to transform his fortunes as a starter. As the man in charge of the offense, he devised a bespoke plan that helped Mayfield shine in Tampa Bay.
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Canales was appointed by the Panthers after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were knocked out of the playoffs (Getty Images)Now, fans of the Panthers are hoping Canales will help Young to kickstart his NFL career in a similar fashion after being handed his first head coach post. After Tampa Bay won their division and a playoff game, the expectation will be that the 42-year-old could have a similar galvanising effect in Carolina.
Panthers' owner David Tepper expressed his confidence in the new appointee, stating: "Dave's background is rooted in success. He has an innovative mindset and positive energy that connects well with players and staff. We are impressed with his ability to bring out the best in players."
The incoming Panthers President of Football Operations/General Manager Dan Morgan also welcomed the appointment enthusiastically, saying: "I'm excited to work alongside Dave again. His background coaching multiple position groups has given him a great understanding of what it takes to build a successful team."
He further added: "His infectious personality resonates with players and everyone who comes in contact with him. I'm confident that will translate to the field."
* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story.
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