NFL Rumors: Bryce Young Has 'a Real Chance' to Remain QB1 After Replacing Andy Dalton

Bryce Young has "a real chance" to remain the Carolina Panthers' starting quarterback after gaining the job back from an injured Andy Dalton, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

The Panthers listed Dalton as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Denver Broncos.

The three-time Pro Bowler sprained his right thumb in a car accident Tuesday. Rapoport reported the injury could keep Dalton sidelined through Week 9, when Carolina hosts the New Orleans Saints.

Head coach Dave Canales initially benched Young following a brutal start to the season. The 2023 No. 1 overall pick went 31-of-56 for 245 yards and three interceptions though two weeks.

The demotion led many to wonder whether the young quarterback's long-term future with the Panthers was in doubt.

It didn't help that Dalton had 319 passing yards and three touchdowns in Week 3 as Carolina beat the Las Vegas Raiders 36-22.

Even if Dalton hadn't gotten injured, though, another QB change may have been inevitable with as much as his performance has tailed off since that strong showing. In a 40-7 Week 7 loss to the Washington Commanders, he threw for 93 yards and two interceptions on 16 attempts.

With Young leading the offense again, Sunday's game might not be the best indicator of the progress he has made.

The Broncos are allowing the fifth-fewest passing yards per game (170.7) and rank seventh in opponent passer rating (81.0). Carolina, meanwhile, is without leading receiver Diontae Johnson along with Adam Thielen.

Young is getting thrown into the deep end as he looks to prove he should be the starter the rest of the way.