What were some critical observations from Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young's first week of training camp practice in 2023?
After weeks of waiting, the Carolina Panthers finally got the chance to showcase their new franchise quarterback from atop the depth chat permanently with the start of training camp this week. Bryce Young carries the hopes of the organization on his shoulders, which is a challenge he's been preparing for ever since his emergence as a high school prodigy in Southern California to begin a prolific fledgling career.
It was an outstanding start to early workouts for Young, so the anticipation was evident heading into Carolina's training camp. This obviously comes with increased intensity and higher tempo - another test of the former Alabama star's mettle before he takes the field in Week 1 at the Atlanta Falcons.
Young is fully aware that his previous accomplishments and where he was drafted mean nothing. But he's also capturing the imagination of an entire organization without so much as a raised word or act of flamboyance.
With that in mind, here are three critical observations from Young's first week at Panthers training camp.
Bryce Young conducts himself like a franchise QB
While the aura Bryce Young portrays isn't anything like the last franchise quarterback drafted by the Carolina Panthers, there's been a lot to like about the way he's conducted himself so far. Being the No. 1 pick comes with an immense sense of pressure and responsibility, but one the signal-caller is taking in his stride - winning over teammates and fans in rapid time.
Young's going above and beyond to make time for the team's support. The former Alabama star also looks more comfortable around teammates and according to Shaq Thompson, showed a completely different side to his personality during the rookie talent show to alter pre-conceived notions.
Of course, producing on the field is the most important thing. But the Panthers have a quarterback to be proud of once again.
Bryce Young's connection with D.J. Chark
It's a new-look wide receiver group for the Carolina Panthers after those in power included D.J. Moore in the trade package that secured the No. 1 pick and the chance to draft Bryce Young. Three new faces came into the fold via free agency and the college ranks, which could see balanced distribution rather than one primary weapon taking the majority of targets.
Young has a tough task on his hands developing chemistry with his primary playmakers while also attempting to get the better of Carolina's progressive young defense. It's been a mixed bag from the signal-caller so far, but one blossoming relationship caught the eye over the first week of training camp more than any other.
The Panthers are no doubt delighted with the cohesion between Young and D.J. Chark. His speed to stretch the field and outstanding ball skills have seen the duo come up with numerous highlights over the first few sessions - the start of what can hopefully become a fruitful tandem when the regular season arrives.
Bryce ➡️ Chark pic.twitter.com/L9KAgeLwZu
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) July 29, 2023
Chark is looking like a No. 1 option, although we're still early in the process. Adam Thielen and Terrace Marshall Jr. should also assist, but all signs point to the former second-round selection being one of the focal points for Young throughout his debut NFL campaign.
This all centers on health for Chark, who's missed 19 outings over the last two seasons. If he puts a consistent run of games together, Young seemingly has no trouble getting him the football and this partnership will only grow in the weeks ahead.
Bryce Young's steep learning curve
It was never going to be smooth sailing for Bryce Young. Anyone that expected it to be isn't living in reality.
Young has the poise and composure of a seasoned veteran. However, the Carolina Panthers can expect some growing pains throughout camp and at stages during the regular season.
This has been reflected over the first week of practice. There are times when Young looked clinical - especially on deep routes and boundary throws - but mistakes have been made and were punished by Carolina's improving defensive unit under Ejiro Evero.
Young's thrown two pick-sixes in consecutive sessions to C.J. Henderson and Shaq Thompson, which isn't ideal. Even so, there's been far more good than bad during a steep learning curve for the Heisman Trophy winner.
Dealing with adversity at this stage of the preparation period is also an important part of Young's development throughout camp. Having things all your own way can lead to complacency, which is something the Panthers are hoping to avoid by keeping the face of the franchise on his toes.
There will be good days. There will be bad days. But Young has done nothing to lessen the expectations for a brighter future with such a cerebral assassin under center.
Next step for Young? Producing the goods when the pads start popping.