Division rival of the Atlanta Falcons puts starting quarterback on the bench

The Atlanta Falcons face a long-term quarterback question, but one that revolves around the time when the torch is passed from Kirk Cousins ​​​​to first-round rookie Michael Penix Jr. – a completely different drama than the one facing the Carolina Panthers.

Carolina benched starting quarterback Bryce Young on Monday, confirmed head coach Dave Canales in a press conference. Experienced signal caller Andy Dalton will take over the quarterback position. The news had previously been reported by several media outlets.

Young, the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has had a brutal start to his second professional season, completing just 55.4% of his passes for 245 yards, no touchdowns and three interceptions. The Panthers (0-2) have been outscored 73-13 in two weeks.

Instead of Young, Carolina is relying on Dalton, a 15-year veteran and 163-game starter who is best known for his nine years as quarterback of the Cincinnati Bengals.

Canales did not specifically say whether Young's move is just a mental reset or a long-term decision. Regardless, Carolina's quarterback plans have a direct impact on the Falcons, as the two NFC South opponents have two upcoming matchups.

Atlanta travels to Charlotte in Week 6 to face the Panthers on Oct. 13 at 4:25 p.m. The next game won't be until the final week of the regular season, when the Falcons host Carolina at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Jan. 5.

But for now, the Falcons are focused on the present – the team's thoughts are on Monday night's kickoff at 8:15 p.m. against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field.