BREAKING: Bryce Young Suffers High Ankle Sprain; Andy Dalton to Start for Panthers in Week 8

In a shocking turn of events during Sunday’s gritty 13–6 victory over the New York Jets, Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young exited the game with a high ankle sprain, leaving fans and teammates alike in a state of uncertainty regarding his availability for the upcoming Week 8 matchup against the formidable Buffalo Bills.

Panthers news: Bryce Young suffers high-ankle sprain, expected to miss Week  8

 

Young, who had been a key player in leading the Panthers to a three-game winning streak, sustained the injury during a third-quarter sack by Jets defensive tackle Jowon Briggs.

Before leaving the game, Young had completed 15 of 25 passes for 138 yards and a touchdown, showcasing the talent and poise that had made him the focal point of the Panthers’ offense.

However, the injury cast a shadow over what had been a promising performance.

Postgame, Young was seen wearing a walking boot, a clear indication of the severity of the injury.

While early X-rays returned negative, an MRI is scheduled to assess the extent of the damage, and the Panthers are bracing for the possibility of a multi-week absence for their young star.

With Young sidelined, veteran quarterback Andy Dalton stepped in to finish the game.

Dalton, now in his 15th NFL season, completed 4 of 7 passes for 60 yards, demonstrating his experience and composure under pressure.

If Young remains unavailable, Dalton is expected to start against the Bills, a team known for its tough defense and high-powered offense.

Head coach Dave Canales expressed optimism about Young’s recovery but emphasized the need for a thorough evaluation before making any decisions.

“We’re hopeful for Bryce, but we have to be smart about it,” Canales said.

“Andy has the experience to lead this team, and we have confidence in him.”

Panthers' Bryce Young to start on Sunday vs. Broncos after Andy Dalton  sprains thumb in car crash

 

As the Panthers prepare for their Week 8 clash with the Bills, all eyes will be on both Young’s recovery and Dalton’s performance under center.

The outcome of this game could significantly impact Carolina’s playoff aspirations, especially with the team currently sitting at 4–3.

Dalton’s leadership and ability to execute the game plan will be crucial as the Panthers face a Bills team that is both explosive offensively and aggressive defensively.

The Panthers will need to rally around their veteran quarterback and continue to build on the momentum they’ve gained over the past few weeks.

For Young, the road to recovery will be closely monitored by the Panthers’ medical staff.

High ankle sprains can vary in severity, and the timeline for return can be unpredictable.

The team will likely take a cautious approach, ensuring that Young is fully healed before he returns to the field.

The Panthers’ coaching staff and players alike are hopeful for a quick recovery for their franchise quarterback, who has shown flashes of brilliance in his rookie season.

As the team navigates this challenging period, the resilience and depth of the roster will be put to the test.

Panthers QB Bryce Young misses second practice with an ankle injury; backup Andy  Dalton likely to start | FOX8 WGHP

 

With the stakes high and the pressure mounting, the Panthers find themselves at a crucial juncture in the season.

The next few weeks will be pivotal not only for Bryce Young’s development but also for the team’s overall success.

As they prepare for the Bills, fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on Young’s condition and Dalton’s performance as the Panthers aim to keep their playoff hopes alive.