The Carolina Panthers couldn’t start their 2023 campaign on the left side of the record column—as they fell to the Atlanta Falcons, 24-10, in their season-opener this past Sunday. So, where do they stand within the early outlook of the league?
Let’s take a look across the power rankings as we head out of Week 1:
Touchdown Wire
Author: Jarrett Bailey
Rank: 23 (-2)
Take: “This was never going to be an overnight transformation. That said, the defense had Desmond Ridder in hell for most of the day. They just need Bryce Young to cut down the turnovers and maybe, just maybe finish with a QBR higher than 15.”
USA TODAY
Author: Nate Davis
Rank: 30 (-3)
Take: “Despite the presence of rookie QB Bryce Young, he wasn’t really close to becoming the first passer drafted No. 1 overall to win his debut in the past 21 years.”
NFL.com
Author: Eric Edholm
Rank: 27 (-2)
Take: “There have been far worse first starts in the history of the NFL, but I honestly thought Bryce Young would play a tad better than he did in Sunday’s loss to the Falcons. Jessie Bates baited him into two picks, in virtually the same way both times. Those should provide a good lesson for the rookie: He can’t always get away with some of those tight-window throws he loves. Yet, it was pretty clear that the game was not too big for Young — and that’s what makes me confident he’ll be fine. The No. 1 overall pick misfired on some passes, including what could have been a 99-yard TD to Jonathan Mingo, but that was one of the few times a receiver had clear separation. Young struggled, but his playmakers didn’t do him a ton of favors. He should settle in with more help.”
ESPN
Author: David Newton
Rank: 28 (-6)
Take: “Coach Frank Reich said the tight end was going to play a big role in his offense, and Hurst showed that even on a down day for rookie quarterback Bryce Young. He led the team in catches, targets and receiving yards. He and Young connected for Carolina’s only touchdown of the day. Hurst’s only real mistake was throwing Young’s first touchdown ball into the stands.”
CBS Sports
Author: Pete Prisco
Rank: 28 (-3)
Take: “Bryce Young had a rookie showing in his first NFL start, which he lost to the Falcons. That’s to be expected, but he has to get better each week.”
Pro Football Talk
Author: Mike Florio
Rank: 29 (-4)
Take: “Bryce Young will need some time. And some help.”
