The Carolina Panthers‘ decision to bench Bryce Young after just 18 games has reignited the debate surrounding the success of No. 1 overall picks in the NFL. While the league has seen a plethora of talented quarterbacks drafted first overall, the recent trend has been one of mixed results.
Since the implementation of the rookie wage scale in 2011, 10 quarterbacks have been selected with the top pick. Despite their lofty draft status, none of these quarterbacks have been able to lead their teams to a Super Bowl victory.
Cam Newton, the only former No. 1 overall pick to win an MVP award during this period, stands as a testament to the rarity of such achievements.
Concerns about the develpoment
The struggles of these QB1 prospects raise questions about the NFL’s evaluation and development processes. From the traits sought after by general managers and coaches to the supporting casts assembled around young quarterbacks, the league needs to re-examine its approach.
The Bryce Young experience offers a valuable opportunity to learn from the past and improve future strategies.
Young, a 5-foot-10, 200-pound pocket passer, defied expectations due to his exceptional football IQ and processing skills.
While his diminutive stature raised concerns, his production at Alabama (65.8 percent completion rate, 8,356 passing yards, 80 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions) and leadership qualities made him a highly coveted prospect.
Critics argued that Young’s success at Alabama was largely attributed to his supporting cast, but his ability to perform in high-pressure situations and lead his team to victories was undeniable. His poise, clutch playmaking, and work ethic made him a promising candidate to become a franchise quarterback.
Despite his impressive credentials, Young’s early struggles with the Panthers have raised questions about his development and the team’s ability to support him.
It is imperative to analyze his performance, the Panthers‘ coaching and personnel decisions, and the factors that contributed to his benching.
