Rapper Rod Wave May Have Saved Bryce Young’s NFL Career

The 2023 No. 1 overall NFL Draft pick Bryce Young has had a slow start to his career, posting a a 2-16 record in his first 18 starts.

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Then after his Week 2 performance vs. the LA Chargers, the second-year quarterback found himself on the bench, as head coach Dave Canales promoted 36-year-old veteran QB Andy Dalton to be the new starter.

A lot of people were writing Young off as a bust, yet there was one individual in particular who reached out to the 23-year-old quarterback when he was at his lowest point.

That is to say, rapper Rod Wave hit him up on Instagram, and said "@bryceyoung aye bra call me."

Ever since this, fans have pointed out that Young's performance on the field has improved, as he has thrown six touchdowns and only three interceptions since getting back his starting job in Week 8 vs. the Denver Broncos.

Then following this, Young helped lead the Panthers to two consecutive victories (vs. Saints 23-22; vs. Giants 20-17).

A reporter asked the question that was on everyone's mind, "Everybody wants to know, what did Rod Wave say to you?"

Young, who said this interaction with Rod Wave on IG was their first time meeting, didn't elaborate on the details, but he did say he was appreciative for the encouragement when he was down.

"He hit me when I got benched and everything, being supportive... so I was definitely grateful."

Overall, in seven starts this year, Young has a passer rating of 73.7 (40th out of all NFL QB's). The former Alabama quarterback has accounted for 1,327 yards (190 yards per game) through the air and has thrown six touchdowns to go with six interceptions.

Related: Panthers Quarterback Bryce Young Receives Outpouring Of Support After Being Benched