This afternoon’s preseason tilt between the Carolina Panthers and New York Jets “doesn’t really matter.” But don’t tell that to Charlotte.
The city was abuzz with hype and anticipation for the start of a new era on Saturday. And much of that excitement is due to the 2023 No. 1 overall pick and the franchise’s new starting quarterback Bryce Young, who hit the field for his first NFL game at Bank of America Stadium.
First time at home 🤩 pic.twitter.com/RJFWOcycOF
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) August 12, 2023
QBs looking fresh‼️ pic.twitter.com/WcSzjLzyrG
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) August 12, 2023
Bryce Young, Thomas Brown, Josh McCown before their first preseason game together at Carolina
What do you figure they’re discussing? pic.twitter.com/LOFCOM8OUS
— Augusta Stone (@augustalstone) August 12, 2023
Bryce Young welcomes the #Panthers on to the field for warmups. The rookie and top pick will start today vs. the #Jets pic.twitter.com/GBrlvDF5PR
— Nick Carboni (@NickCarboniWCNC) August 12, 2023
Among those in attendance for the debut will be four-time Most Valuable Player and Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who had the following to say about Young this past Wednesday:
“I like the kid a lot. We share an agent. So I’ve known him for a long time. I love watching him in college. I like his demeanor, I like his movement, I like the way he throws.
“I trust a guy like Adam [Thielen]. Him and I have been buddies for a long time, and he just raves about him. So, I think Carolina is in good hands.”
Head coach Frank Reich did not specify exactly how long Young will play in the contest. Nonetheless, it’ll be a moment to remember.