Panthers QB Andy Dalton broke right thumb, kept playing last week

Field Level Media|published: 10/30/2025, 4:33pm EDT

Oct 26, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Andy Dalton (14) throws during the first half against the Buffalo Bills at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

Quarterback Andy Dalton added essential context to his performance filling in for injured starter Bryce Young last week.

Dalton said he knew he hurt the thumb on his throwing hand during the second series of the 40-9 home loss to the Buffalo Bills last Sunday, but the 15-year veteran didn't know the extent of the injury.

"Obviously I'd prefer my thumb not be broken, but it is what it is," Dalton, 38, said Thursday. "For me, I didn't know what had happened. I knew that I had it hit. I still felt like I could function normally."

Dalton was sacked seven times and completed 16 of 24 passes for 175 yards with an interception. He also lost two fumbles.

Young (ankle) is expected to be back in the starting lineup this week and was a full participant in practice Thursday. Dalton said he could potentially get ready to play if necessary when the Panthers (4-4) visit the Green Bay Packers (5-1-1) on Sunday.

Dalton was listed as limited at Thursday's practice after sitting out on Wednesday, while Young was a full participant for the second consecutive day. Wide receiver Xavier Legette (illness) did not practice. Head coach Dave Canales said that center Cade Mays (ankle/knee) and outside linebacker Princely Umanmielen (ankle) were held out again and are unlikely to play on Sunday.

--Field Level Media