Pivot Podcast Bryce Young Carolina Panthers Quarterback reflects on playoff run, finally hitting his stride, opens up on the one night that changed his mindset, pressures of being the No. 1 NFL pick , bond with CJ Stroud and why he will never eat raccoon.
Feb 20, 2026
Bryce Young, Carolina Panthers quarterback and 2023 No. 1 pick with a Heisman-winning college pedigree, reflects on his playoff run and the mindset-shifting night that changed him. He discusses handling benching and pressure, leadership growth, chemistry with Xavier Legette, bond with CJ Stroud, and why some things (including raccoon) are off the menu.
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Benching Was Harder Than Draft Pressure
- Bryce says getting benched was harder than handling draft expectations because it introduced real uncertainty about his path.
- He leaned on faith and internal consistency rather than outside projections to navigate that period.
Step Into Leadership Early
- Don't wait to lead because of age; earn respect by showing consistent work and be vocal when appropriate.
- Bring teammates with you and hold yourself accountable before holding others accountable.
Atlanta Game Validated The Offense
- Bryce describes the Atlanta game as the first full-strength offensive showing that proved they could achieve big performances now.
- He framed the game as validation that their young offense could execute and wasn't just a future possibility.