Panthers' Reich dismisses Young size concerns: He's the draft's best player

Despite widespread concerns over Bryce Young's size, Carolina Panthers head coach Frank Reich has no doubts about the quarterback's potential.

"There's a lot said about the size," Reich said, according to Bobby Kownack of NFL Network. "At the end of the day, there are a lot of factors that go into it. But ... when you watch the tape, Bryce Young is the best player."

Young measured in at 5-foot-10 and 204 pounds at the combine. However, he impressed in his two years as the leader of the Crimson Tide despite his small stature, winning the Heisman trophy in 2021.

Overall, Young threw for 8,356 yards with 80 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in his career with Alabama. Young became the first player in Crimson Tide history to go first overall in the NFL draft.

"I'm super grateful," Young said, per Kownack. "That's something that I don't take lightly and don't take for granted. To believe in me is something I'm forever going to be grateful for. I want this opportunity. And I'm excited."

The Panthers are hoping Young will stabilize the quarterback position. Carolina has had six different signal-callers start a game for the team since 2020.