On Tuesday evening, the Carolina Panthers confirmed that starting quarterback Andy Dalton was involved in a car accident in Charlotte.
“Andy Dalton and his family were in a car accident today in Charlotte. Fortunately, neither Dalton nor his family required transportation by emergency medical services,” the team stated. “Dalton is currently being assessed by team medical staff.”
The primary concern for the Panthers is ensuring that Dalton and his family are okay, both physically and mentally. From personal experience, being in a car accident can be psychologically distressing, so it’s crucial that they feel supported, and the organization will certainly provide that.
On the football front, this incident could impact the team’s preparations for Sunday’s game. Earlier in the week, head coach Dave Canales expressed the team’s commitment to Dalton despite their four-game losing streak and didn’t indicate any plans to return to Bryce Young just yet.
“In terms of our offensive development, Dalton gives us the best chance to win,” Canales explained. “If you look at the games he’s played, we’ve seen strong situational passing and some explosive plays. Overall, the offense has functioned well, and I want us all, including Andy, to find a way to finish strong.”
If Dalton is unable to play, Bryce Young could get another opportunity to take the lead in Carolina. With the trade deadline approaching, it’s vital for him to perform well, demonstrating to the organization that he should remain part of the team.