Plenty of hope was drained from Panthers fans after a devastating loss to the Saints in Week 1. The team's second matchup against the Chargers was not much better, with a dismal score of 26-3. While there was plenty to take away from the game, what came after may have the bigger impact on what's to come for the Panthers.

Bryce Young Benched

Following another disastrous performance, Bryce Young has officially lost his hold on the starting QB job. Head Coach Dave Canales announced that Andy Dalton will be starting week 3 against the Raiders. This came as a surprise to some given how much resources the Panthers gave up to select Young in the 2023 Draft. While there is no doubt that Young's performance warranted his benching, the concern stems around whether this benching is temporary or permanent. While Canales has not made a statement on that, it is worrisome that the Panthers could once again find themselves looking in the QB market. With a very thing free agent class and a weak crop of QB prospects in the draft, next offseason is not the most optimal time to be looking for a quarterback.

Another concern many have with Bryce Young's benching is whether owner David Tepper had any involvement in the decision. The suspicion comes from the fact that HC Canales said immediately after the game that Young was still his quarterback, but then changed his mind later on. Some also pointed out differences in Canales' dialogue, such as him saying it was "our decision" rather than saying it was his decision. While Tepper is known for his impatience, the one surprising thing about his involvement would be that he would be openly admitting he made a mistake. It's pretty much public knowledge at this point that Tepper overruled the coaches in the 2023 Draft and forced them to take Bryce Young, while the staff had wanted CJ Stroud. Tepper benching Young would him openly admitting he chose the wrong QB, which has become clear Stroud is the better quarterback.

Whether Bryce Young is done for good or just taking some time off, the one thing that is clear is that he has been holding the offense back. The offensive line has been giving him plenty of time in the pocket and the receivers have been getting open. Starting Dalton will give Canales the ability to see how well the offense can be when the QB is capable of working with it.

Shaky Start for Jaycee Horn

The Panthers 2021 first round selection has gotten his fair share of criticism when it comes to his health, given he has yet to play a full season. However, performance has not been an issue until this season. Horn struggled week 1 against the Saints, and didn't look much better against the Chargers. Horn failed to cover receiver Quentin Johnston leading to a touchdown. While Horn also had an interception that game, this is not the kind of performance Horn has produced in his previous NFL seasons. Could be a slow start, or could be worse, but Panthers fans should hope to see a better performance against the Raiders with top receiver Davante Adams.

Pass Rush Concerns

The Panthers have made a shocking move on Tuesday, opting to waive sacks leader Eku Leota. With Derrick Brown already on the injured list, this move is puzzling given how weak the pass rush has been for the Panthers. In terms of outside linebackers, the Panthers currently house Jadeveon Clowney, DJ Johnson, and Charles Harris. There is an open spot on the roster if Dan Morgan plans on bringing in a new OLB. Still the move is a bit concerning.