Breaking news: Bryce Young’s heartfelt tribute to legendary coach shocks NFL and Carolina Panthers
A MOMENT OF TRUE LEADERSHIP THAT GOES BEYOND FOOTBALL
In a heartwarming and unexpected move that has left the NFL and the Carolina Panthers community in awe, rookie quarterback Bryce Young made the bold decision to skip practice today after hearing about the passing of legendary coach and mentor, John Madden. The football icon, who forever changed the game both on the field and in broadcasting, was a symbol of greatness for countless players and fans alike.
A SACRIFICE FOR LEGACY
The news of Madden’s passing was more than just a loss of a coach—it was the loss of a man who redefined football for generations. Young, who had admired Madden’s approach to the game for years, immediately took action to honor his memory. In a shocking and emotional moment, the young QB made it clear that today, football would take a backseat to respect.
The decision didn’t come easily, and sources close to the Panthers revealed that there was some pushback from coaching staff, including Head Coach Frank Reich. With a crucial practice session ahead, it was a difficult decision to support, but Young’s explanation left everyone in the room speechless: his tribute was about more than just the game—it was about honoring a man who shaped the very essence of football.
"THIS IS ABOUT RESPECT, THIS IS ABOUT LEGACY"
In a powerful statement to the media, Young said, "This game will always be here, but the impact of Coach Madden and his contributions to the game are irreplaceable. I needed to take a moment to pay my respects, not just as a player but as someone who’s been inspired by his vision of the game."
A NEW DEFINITION OF "LEADER"
In a world where young quarterbacks are often defined by their stats and performance on the field, Bryce Young has redefined leadership. Today, he showed that true greatness isn’t always about touchdowns or passing yards—it’s about making decisions that reflect integrity and respect for the game and those who paved the way before us.
THE WORLD REACTS
As news of Young’s tribute spread, social media lit up with praise from both fans and fellow athletes. The hashtag #LeaderBryce quickly trended, as fans from across the NFL world shared their admiration for Young’s decision to honor the late John Madden. Many spoke about how Madden’s influence on the game had inspired them, with Young’s actions proving that the heart of football extends far beyond the field.
In this rare moment, Bryce Young has demonstrated that the true essence of leadership is not only about what happens on the field but also about the character and respect you show off it. Today, he has set a new standard for what it means to be a leader—one that values legacy and respect above all else.
Jayden Daniels Out: Marcus Mariota to Start for Commanders in Week 3
The Washington Commanders won’t have superstar quarterback Jayden Daniels in Week 3 and will start veteran backup Marcus Mariota in his place against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 3.
MRI tests revealed Daniels suffered a PCL sprain in a 27-18 Week 2 loss to the Green Bay Packers.
Mariota is in his second season as Daniels’ backup and signed a 1-year, $8 million contract on March 12 after playing on a 1-year, $6 million contract in 2024.
“Now official: Commanders HC Dan Quinn said Marcus Mariota will start Sunday versus the Raiders,” ESPN’s Adam Schefter wrote on his official X account on September 19.
Mariota filled in for Daniels in 2024 after he injured his ribs in the first quarter of a 40-7 Week 7 win over the Carolina Panthers. Mariota looked sharp that day, going 18-of-23 passing for 205 yards, 2 touchdowns and no interceptions to go with 11 carries for 34 yards.
He also saw extended action in the regular season finale, going 15-of-19 passing for 161 yards, 2 touchdowns and no interceptions to go with 5 carries for 56 yards and 1 touchdown in a 23-19 win over the Dallas Cowboys.
Mariota, Daniels Have Plenty In Common
Mariota and Daniels have a lot in common aside from just how they play — starting with both being similar size. Mariota is 6-foot-4 and 220 pounds while Daniels is 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds.
Both players were No. 2 overall picks in the NFL draft. Mariota was picked No. 2 by the Tennessee Titans in 2015 and Daniels was picked No. 2 in the 2024 NFL draft by th Commanders.
Both were rookie starting quarterbacks. Mariota went 3-9 in 2015 and Daniels went 12-5 in 2024, leading his team to the NFC Championship Game.
Both played in the Pac-12 Conference. Mariota starred at the University of Oregon. Daaniels started his career at Arizona State before he transferred to LSU for his final 2 seasons.
Both Mariota and Daniels are also part of college football’s most exclusive club — Mariota became Oregon’s first Heisman Trophy winner in 2014 and Daniels won the Heisman Trophy at LSU in 2023.
