NFL 'TNF' player prop: Young may be restless

If you’re wondering why two of the worst teams in the league are sharing the Thursday night spotlight, it’s likely because their futures are inextricably linked — and the NFL can’t resist a storyline. Finishing last season with a 3-14 record earned the Bears the top spot in the draft, but since they opted to trade it for a package from the Panthers, they’ll now have two early first-round picks in 2024. And the centerpiece of that blockbuster deal gets our support for the prop to pop:

The bet: Over 9½ rushing yards for Panthers quarterback Bryce Young (FanDuel)

The Heisman Trophy winner at Alabama, Young was made the highly debated first overall selection. He finally earned his initial pro victory by outdueling second pick C.J. Stroud in Week 8, but the Texans signal-caller has enjoyed a far better rookie season.

One area in which Young has been notably superior is as a runner. He averages nearly seven yards per attempt and has cleared this number in five of his seven games. In last week’s loss to the Cots, he fully embraced his mobility and set new career highs with five carries for 41 yards.

The Bears defense allows the fewest rushing yards per play, which will force the Panthers to attack through the air. But when Young doesn’t find an open receiver, he’s more than capable of picking up yardage with his legs. The first five quarterbacks who opposed Chicago this season did exactly that, gaining a dozen or more rushing yards.

With the added incentive of showcasing his skills against the team that could’ve drafted him, Young figures to scramble enough to deliver this prop.