In 2024, when Bryce Young came back from the bench, he was able to hit at a high clip on deep shots down the field. He showed that his arm strength wasn’t a problem, and that he could make big-time throws with the best of them. In 2025, that has been sorely missing from the Carolina Panthers’ offense.
For what it’s worth, the Panthers remain fifth in big-time throw rate on 20-yard passes or more, but they’ve dropped to 31st in attempt percentage. It’s not a part of the offense anymore. Why might this be? Why is Young struggling where he excelled in 2024? One analyst might have a clue.
For all the complaints about the 2024 wide receiver corps in Carolina (and there were valid complaints), they did a lot better of a job at creating big plays down the field than the 2025 unit. That might be a little surprising.
NFL insider Matt Harmon thinks the lack of deep and even intermediate success this year is not ideal given how Carolina’s offense is set up. Tetairoa McMillan is “pretty much a near-exclusive X-receiver who runs a very downfield route tree that doesn’t feature a ton of quick-hitters.”
Unfortunately, when McMillan does get the ball, he then needs to be perfect, which he hasn’t yet. “He’s made some rookie mistakes at the catch point,” Harmon added. And beyond McMillan, the offense is not producing anything.
While Harmon does think Carolina has set up the offense with the right personnel for their play styles, he isn’t pleased with the results. “WR2 is a nothingburger, they don’t get Coker the ball enough, and there’s a lack of speed beyond some flashes from Jimmy Horn on designer plays,” he wrote.
Xavier Legette is perhaps the most guilty party here. He’s provided virtually nothing this year, and because the Panthers insist on trying to get him going despite the failures, Jalen Coker is left out. The ideal world features a more consistent McMillan playing off of a rejuvenated Legette, which also opens things up for more Coker.
The offense can then use Jimmy Horn’s speed as a real gamebreaker, but they’re just not able to effectively work all those things together, and much of it comes down to execution, and it’s not all on the quarterback.
“Buffalo’s offense is sputtering, and some fans are wondering if Brian Daboll could be the cure for what ails them.”
The Buffalo Bills (6-3) have been struggling offensively, with their most recent lackluster performance coming in a 30-13 defeat to the Miami Dolphins. Despite facing one of the league’s worst defenses, Buffalo’s receivers failed to create any separation, and the offense was unable to get anything going through the first three quarters. It’s clear that the Bills’ offensive issues are becoming a growing concern.
However, today’s Buffalo Rumblings report quashed any hopes for those Bills fans calling for a change at offensive coordinator. Head coach Sean McDermott confirmed that Joe Brady would remain the team’s offensive coordinator through the end of the 2025 NFL season. Despite speculation that former offensive coordinator Brian Daboll could be brought back to help turn things around, McDermott swiftly dismissed the idea.
McDermott Shoots Down Daboll Return
When Daboll was fired as head coach of the New York Giants, rumors swirled about the possibility of a reunion with quarterback Josh Allen in Buffalo. McDermott wasted no time in shutting down those rumors, stating that he has confidence in Joe Brady and has no intention of bringing Daboll back to Buffalo.
“At this time, that is not something we are considering,” McDermott said when asked about the possibility of Daboll returning to Western New York.
The question remains: could Daboll have been the solution to Buffalo’s offensive struggles, or is the real issue something deeper? The Bills started the season strong but have since been cold, particularly in their loss to the Dolphins.
Dalton Kincaid’s Injury Puts More Pressure on Offense
Adding to Buffalo’s woes, tight end Dalton Kincaid, who has been one of Josh Allen’s most reliable targets this season, has been officially labeled “week-to-week” after suffering a hamstring injury in the Dolphins’ loss. Kincaid had been a standout, recording 29 catches for 448 yards and four touchdowns—leading the team in both receiving yards and touchdowns this year. His absence could further strain the already struggling offense.
As the Bills continue to deal with a variety of injuries, including to key players like Kincaid, the offense will need to find a way to regain its early-season form. While McDermott has expressed confidence in his current coaching staff, fans are left to wonder if a change in offensive philosophy or leadership might be what’s needed to reignite Buffalo’s high-powered attack.
More Updates on Bills’ Injuries and Roster Moves
As the Bills face a series of injuries, including to key offensive players, the team is also adding new faces to the practice squad. Stay tuned for updates as Buffalo looks to address its depth and find solutions to its current offensive struggles.