The New York Jets and Carolina Panthers participated in joint scrimmages this past week, and between Aaron Rodgers and [autotag]Bryce Young[/autotag], the media was working overtime. As a rookie and first overall pick, everyone wants to see the former Alabama signal caller on the field for the first time in game-like situations and see if he was worthy of being drafted where he was. Rodgers on the other hand is one of the most polarizing figures in sports and one of the greatest quarterbacks in the history of the game.
Despite nearly 20 years of difference in age, the two share a lot of similarities in their style of play. Both would be considered savants of the game who scored well above the average in their respective pre-draft Wonderlick and S2 tests. Most of the guys in the NFL could hit a door from 40 yards away, and some could hit the doorknob, but these two are unique arm talents and could put it through the keyhole in the door. They both have remarkably fast releases and the ability to make insane off-platform throws.
Panthers head coach Frank Reich played quarterback in the NFL for 13 years and understands the position in ways most of us never will. With the two squads coming together for joint practices, Reich spoke on what he sees between Young and Rodgers in terms of similarities and differences.
Reich said to the media,
“I do think there are similarities. You don’t like to compare in this business and obviously Aaron Rodgers is in a league of his own. Bryce isn’t ready to be mentioned in the same sentence as Aaron Rodgers… That’s the thing with Aaron, he can not only throw it from all those arm angles, but the speed at which the ball gets out, there is a special skillset for that and we believe Bryce has the same skillset as that.”
Rodgers reaffirmed Reich’s claim by saying about Young, “I think Carolina is in good hands.”
While also saying Bryce Young isn't ready to "be mentioned in the same sentence as Aaron Rodgers," #Panthers HC Frank Reich says Young has some of the same throwing skills.#Jets in Spartanburg tomorrow.
đź“ą: @panthers pic.twitter.com/08IvKYQXYZ
— Nick Carboni (@NickCarboniWCNC) August 8, 2023
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