Panthers' Bryce Young (ankle) misses second straight practice - ESPN

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers may be without quarterback Bryce Young for Sunday's game against the Seattle Seahawks after the top pick of the 2023 draft missed his second straight practice Thursday with an ankle injury.

Veteran Andy Dalton took all the first-team snaps both days.

«For me, obviously — absolutely,» Dalton said of enjoying being back in the spotlight again. «It's always nice because I have had a certain way of operating in my career, and when you go from starting to being the backup, that is one of the things that you miss.

»When you get a chance to take ownership of what you're doing, and to know how you want it to look and how you want it to feel and see it executed, that is what makes football fun."

Young injured the ankle during Monday night's 20-17 loss to the New Orleans Saints. The Panthers are 0-2; every other team in the NFC South is 2-0.

Offensive coordinator Thomas Brown said Young's injury happened in the first half, but added the injury did not affect the quarterback's performance.

Brown said missing Thursday's practice — when there are heavy installations for the game plan — is significant for any quarterback, not just a rookie. He didn't, however, rule Young out for Sunday's game just yet.

Asked if he'd feel comfortable starting a rookie if he didn't any physical reps this week, Brown didn't hesitate.

«I would, no question — that rookie,» Brown said. «I wouldn't make a general statement when it comes to all rookies, but that rookie I would.''

Young ranks 27th in the league in ESPN's Total QBR (35.5) and 31st in passer rating (66.6). He has led only two touchdown drives — only one over the first 7½ quarters — and has three turnovers (two interceptions, one fumble).

Dalton made it