Bryce Young Stuns NFL by Declining NFC Offensive Player of the Week Award, Gives Credit to Panthers Teammate

Charlotte, NC. After a historic performance that helped the Carolina Panthers pull off a dramatic comeback win over the Atlanta Falcons, Bryce Young was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week. But just hours later, the second-year quarterback shocked the NFL by declining the honor and insisting it be given to someone else.
“I completed 45 passes because I had eight guys catching them for me” Young told reporters. “If anyone deserves this award, it’s them. And if I had to choose one, it’s Tetairoa McMillan.”
McMillan, a breakout rookie wide receiver, hauled in eight critical catches, including the clutch reception that helped set up the go-ahead drive in the fourth quarter. He not only emerged as Young’s top target but also embodied the Panthers’ dramatic shift in offensive strategy under head coach Dave Canales.
Previously criticized for clinging to a conservative run-heavy approach, Canales flipped the script in the 30–27 win over the Falcons, a team known for its pass defense. When the ground game stalled, Canales made a bold decision to fully trust Young through the air, resulting in a franchise-record 45 completed passes.
Young’s humility and growth as a leader show why the Panthers have pegged him as the foundation of their rebuild. But this selfless gesture of passing the spotlight to a teammate didn't just highlight his character — it galvanized a locker room that had been shaken just weeks ago.
Up next? A true test awaits against the San Francisco 49ers. But if the performance against the Falcons was a turning point, then Young’s actions may have sparked the emotional fire Carolina needs to make a real run.










