In a turn of events, second-year quarterback Bryce Young will take over as the starting quarterback for the Carolina Panthers against the Denver Broncos in Week 8, following an injury to Andy Dalton from a car accident on Tuesday.

Dalton was with his family during the accident, and thankfully, no one required immediate hospital care. However, after further evaluation by the Panthers’ medical team, it was revealed that the experienced quarterback had sprained his thumb.

Due to his injury, Dalton couldn’t join the Panthers’ practice session on Wednesday. Following practice, head coach Dave Canales announced that Bryce Young will reprise his role as the starter.

“We’re assessing Andy on a day-to-day basis this weekend to see if he can be available as the backup [quarterback] for game day,” Canales informed reporters on Wednesday afternoon.

After the Panthers faced a heavy 40-7 defeat against the Washington Commanders last Sunday, Canales mentioned that the team intended to continue with Dalton as the starter, despite a four-game losing streak. However, Dalton’s injury has altered that strategy.

Why is Bryce Young Starting Against the Broncos?

Young will step back into the role of starting quarterback after Dalton’s thumb injury from the car accident. This game against the Broncos will mark Young’s first start since Week 2.

Canales updated the press on Wednesday, reassuring that everyone involved in the accident is fine, but Dalton did sprain his thumb. He missed practice on Wednesday, but the team will monitor him throughout the week to see if he can serve as Young’s backup on game day.

Bryce Young’s Performance So Far

This season, Young has started two games, losing both. He completed 56.9% of his passes, totaling 299 yards with no touchdowns and three interceptions in those outings.

Across his two-year career, Young holds a record of 2-16, with a completion rate of 59.5%, 3,176 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions.