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Bryce Young Dazzles in Panthers' Preseason Opener
9 Aug
Summary
- Bryce Young throws TD pass in Panthers' preseason win
- Former Alabama players make impact in NFL and golf
- Remembering Alabama legend Riley Smith, 1936 NFL draft pick

As the 2025 NFL season kicks off, all eyes are on Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young as he looks to build on his electric finish to the 2025 campaign. Young wasted no time making an impact in the Panthers' preseason opener against the Cleveland Browns, completing 4 of 6 passes for 58 yards and a touchdown in the first half.
The former Heisman Trophy winner connected with rookie wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan for a 30-yard gain on the team's opening drive, then found second-year wideout Jalen Coker for a 5-yard TD strike. Young's sharp performance has Panthers fans excited for the season ahead.
Elsewhere, former Alabama players continued to make their mark across the league and on the golf course. Defensive back DeMarcco Hellams made his preseason debut for the Falcons after missing all of last season with an injury, while golfer Bud Cauley sits in the top 10 at the FedEx St. Jude Championship.
The article also pays tribute to legendary Alabama player Riley Smith, who passed away in 1999 at the age of 88. Smith was the second player selected in the inaugural 1936 NFL draft and the first drafted player to actually play in the league, as Heisman Trophy winner Jay Berwanger turned down his selection.