Andy Dalton Injury News & Updates

Dalton (thumb) is listed as active Sunday at Green Bay, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Dalton earned a spot start in place of Bryce Young (ankle) last Sunday against the Bills in which he completed 16 of 24 passes for 175 yards, no touchdowns and one interception in a 40-9 loss. After Dalton missed Wednesday's practice due to injury, the nature of the issue was revealed to be a broken right thumb, which limited him Thursday and Friday and left him questionable for Week 9 action. With Bryce Young back in the No. 1 job Sunday, Dalton will return to his normal backup gig, while fellow signal-caller Mike White (coach's decision) is inactive.

Dalton (thumb) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Packers.

Dalton came out of last Sunday's spot start against the Bills with a thumb injury that limited his practice reps this week. Mike White will handle backup duties behind Bryce Young if Dalton isn't available.

Dalton (thumb) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.

Both of Carolina's top two quarterbacks are banged up, but Bryce Young seems to be in a better spot on the health front than Dalton, who told Steve Reed of the Associated Press that he's still able to throw the football despite nursing a broken thumb on his dominant hand. Though head coach Dave Canales labeled him day-to-day Wednesday, Young has turned in a pair of full practices to begin Week 9 prep, whereas Dalton has managed just one limited session. Canales said that he won't name a starting quarterback for Sunday's game at Green Bay until later in the week, but Young would seem to have the edge on the assignment over Dalton, who threw for just 175 yards in a blowout loss to Buffalo while filling in for an injured Young in Week 8. If Dalton's thumb injury is significant enough to make him unavailable even for backup duties this weekend, the Panthers would turn to the newly signed Mike White as their No. 2 quarterback.

Dalton (thumb) did not practice Wednesday.

Dalton missed Wednesday's practice due to a right thumb injury, while Bryce Young (ankle) returned to action as a full participant. Due to a right high-ankle sprain suffered Week 7, Young was unable to play Week 8 versus Buffalo, resulting in Dalton drawing a spot start. Dalton struggled notably versus Buffalo, throwing for just 175 passing yards with no touchdowns and one interception in the ugly 40-9 loss. The veteran backup's status now looks uncertain for Sunday's game against the Packers, though Young appears to have progressed enough in his recovery to reclaim his starting role. Hendon Hooker will stand to come off the practice squad as the No. 2 option behind Young if Dalton is unable to go Week 9.

Dalton completed 16 of 24 passes for 175 yards with no touchdowns and one interception while adding two rushes for one yard in the Panthers' 40-9 loss to the Bills on Sunday.

The veteran signal-caller drew the start for Bryce Young (ankle) and had about as sluggish a day as his numbers imply. Dalton did put together a deceptively efficient stat line, as his completions generally didn't lead to any points and he also took a whopping seven sacks. Dalton displayed strong chemistry with top receiver Tetairoa McMillan (7-99-0 line on 10 targets), but he didn't lead the Panthers into the end zone until the game was well out of hand. Young's ankle injury could take multiple weeks to heal, so despite the uninspiring effort Sunday, Dalton could well be back under center for a tough Week 9 road matchup against the Packers.

Dalton will start Sunday's game against the Bills, a Panthers spokesperson confirmed Friday, Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Dalton will be the starter even if Bryce Young (ankle) is medically cleared to play. Young is listed as doubtful. Dalton has made 168 previous regular-season starts, including six with the Panthers. He's 1-5 in those six starts for Carolina.

Dalton is expected to start Sunday's game against the Bills, and potentially longer, after Bryce Young suffered a high-ankle sprain in Week 7, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Dalton closed out Carolina's 13-6 win over the Jets after Young's fourth-quarter departure, completing four of seven pass attempts for 60 yards. The veteran also rushed twice for minus-2 yards. Last season, Dalton logged a five-game stretch under center from Weeks 3 through 7, a span in which he completed 66.7 percent of his pass attempts for 989 yards, seven touchdowns and six interceptions. The presence of new No. 1 receiver Tetairoa McMillan alongside second-year pro Xavier Legette could allow Dalton to improve upon those numbers during his 2025 starting stint. Pelissero reports that the Panthers are optimistic Young could miss as little as one contest, though high-ankle sprains typically carry a 2-4 week recovery timeline.

Dalton completed four of seven pass attempts for 60 yards and rushed twice for minus-2 yards in Sunday's 13-6 win over the Jets.

The veteran quarterback entered the Panthers' Week 7 win early in the fourth quarter after Bryce Young (ankle) went down with an injury. Dalton performed well in relief, completing four of seven pass attempts for 60 yards, highlighted by a 33-yard strike to Xavier Legette that helped seal Sunday's victory. Young's practice participation throughout the week will likely provide the best indication of his potential availability for the Week 8 matchup against the Bills. If he's forced to miss time, Dalton will continue to serve as the Panthers' top signal caller.

Dalton (elbow) was not listed on the Panthers' injury report Wednesday.

Dalton was dealing with an elbow sprain late in training camp, but it looks like he'll be back to full strength for the start of the regular season. He's listed as the next man up in the event that starter Bryce Young has to come out for any reason.

Dalton (elbow) isn't in line to play in Thursday's preseason game against the Steelers, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Dalton injured his right elbow last Saturday versus the Texans and eventually was diagnosed with a muscle strain in his elbow area. Carolina already wasn't playing its starters in the exhibition finale, but a number of key reserves like Dalton also won't be available. He'll now focus his attention to getting healthy for a Week 1 road matchup with the Jaguars on Sunday, Sept. 7, while Jack Plummer and Bryce Perkins will direct this offense Thursday with Bryce Young also in street clothes.

Dalton (elbow) is day-to-day as he deals with a muscle strain in his elbow area, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Dalton was originally diagnosed with an elbow sprain Saturday, but the injury has been clarified as more of a muscle strain, which has left the quarterback dealing with soreness. Dalton threw in individual drills Monday and isn't expected to miss significant time, though it remains to be seen if he heals in time to play in Thursday's preseason finale against the Steelers.

Panthers head coach Dave Canales said Saturday that Dalton has been diagnosed with an elbow sprain, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

Canales said Dalton told him he feels OK after having been forced out of Saturday's 20-3 preseason loss against the Texans, but the veteran quarterback will undergo further medical testing Sunday. If Dalton is unavailable for any stretch of time, including Carolina's preseason finale against the Steelers on Thursday, Aug. 21, Jack Plummer will step up as the primary backup to Bryce Young.

Dalton will not return to Saturday's preseason game against the Texans due to a right elbow injury, Sheena Quick of Fox Sports Radio 1340 reports.

Dalton entered Saturday's contest after Bryce Young started the first drive, but the veteran quarterback has now exited for the day after taking a hit from Houston defensive end Danielle Hunter, per Joe Person of The Athletic. Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer reports that Dalton appears in high spirits on the sideline, though, an indication that the elbow injury is something he could play through were this a regular-season affair, rather than a preseason matchup. Jack Plummer will close things out for the Panthers under center.

The Panthers signed Dalton on a two-year, $8 million contract extension Tuesday.

Dalton's new extension reportedly includes $6 million guaranteed and carries a maximum value of $10 million with incentives, per Adam Schefter of ESPN. In nine appearances with Carolina over the last two seasons, the 37-year-old signal-caller has tossed nine touchdowns and six interceptions, with perhaps his most impactful contributions coming as a valued veteran mentor for Bryce Young, who notably improved Year 2. Dalton will remain with the Panthers as both a backup, and as a hopeful pillar of support for Young in the quarterback room.

Dalton completed 106 of his 160 pass attempts for 989 yards, seven touchdowns and six interceptions over six regular-season games in 2024. He also rushed 11 times for 34 yards and lost two fumbles.

After the Panthers lost their first two games of the regular season by a combined 60 points, 2023 first-overall pick Bryce Young was benched in favor of Dalton, who then made five consecutive starts before injuring his thumb in a car accident. Dalton initially provided Carolina's offense with a much-needed spark, throwing for five touchdowns and one interception over his first two starts, before regressing in his final three games. He's now finished the final season of a two-year, $10 million deal signed with Carolina in 2023, making him an unrestricted free agent this summer. The 37-year-old is likely to serve as a backup quarterback again in 2025, whether with the Panthers or another team, if he decides to return for his 15th NFL season.

Dalton (thumb) was a full participant in Wednesday's practice, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

Dalton was inactive for Carolina's loss to the Broncos in Week 8, which left Bryce Young positioned to start under center, but the veteran quarterback now appears fully recovered from the thumb strain he sustained due to a car accident last Tuesday. However, Panthers head coach Dave Canales said, per Joe Person of The Athletic, that Young will continue to start at quarterback heading into Week 9 action against the Saints. Dalton thus figures to be active for Sunday's game against New Orleans, but in a backup role.

Dalton (thumb) is inactive for Sunday's Week 8 matchup against the Broncos, Darin Gantt of the team's official site reports.

Dalton was already projected to serve as no better than the No. 2 quarterback behind Bryce Young for Sunday's game after the former suffered a thumb sprain during a Tuesday car accident. However, Dalton was never able to get on the practice field during Week 8 prep, making his inactive status fully expected. Undrafted rookie Jack Plummer, who was elevated from the practice squad Saturday, will serve as Young's backup Sunday, while Dalton will turn his attention to at least being able to dress for a Week 9 home divisional matchup against the Saints.

Dalton (thumb) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Broncos.

Dalton missed a third straight practice Friday, and it looks like he's trending in the wrong direction to be available as Bryce Young's backup Week 8. The veteran signal-caller sustained a sprained thumb during a car accident Tuesday, but he otherwise avoided any major injuries. Pending both Dalton's health and Young's performance versus Denver, it remains to be seen who will start under center for the Panthers at home against the Saints in Week 9.

Dalton (thumb) is not participating in Thursday's practice, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Dalton is sitting out a second straight practice heading into Week 8 action. Panthers head coach Dave Canales has already stated that Bryce Young will start Sunday's contest against the Broncos, and it seems like practice squad quarterback Jack Plummer is trending toward working as the 2023 No. 1 overall pick's backup. Dalton is recovering from a sprained thumb he sustained in a car accident Tuesday, and he has yet to be officially ruled out for Week 8.

Dalton (thumb) won't start Sunday against the Broncos, as coach Dave Canales said Wednesday that Bryce Young will get the start, Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Dalton sprained his thumb in a car accident Tuesday and was unable to practice Wednesday. The team doesn't foresee Dalton being available come Sunday, and Young being named the starter so quickly suggests Dalton could miss time beyond Week 8. While Dalton hasn't officially been ruled out yet, Jack Plummer will likely be elevated from the practice squad to work as Young's backup against the Broncos.

Dalton didn't practice Wednesday due to a thumb injury.

It's unclear if this injury is connected to the car accident in which Dalton was involved Tuesday. Dalton's status will bear monitoring as the Panthers continue practicing Thursday and Friday, with the previously benched Bryce Young waiting in the wings should Dalton be unavailable Sunday against the Broncos.

Dalton (undisclosed) is not participating in Wednesday's practice, Sheena Quick of Fox Sports Radio 1340 reports.

Dalton was involved in a car accident Tuesday, although he didn't require emergency medical attention after the incident. Still, it's no surprise to see the veteran quarterback held out of practice just one day removed from the accident. If Dalton is cleared to resume practicing Thursday and/or Friday, he may be in line to start Sunday's game in Denver, but the Panthers could also consider returning to Bryce Young under center, either for one game or on a more permanent basis. Dalton has led Carolina to 1-4 record while throwing for 989 yards (6.2 yards per attempt), seven touchdowns and six interceptions since taking over as the starter Week 3.

Dalton was involved in a car accident in Charlotte on Tuesday and is set to be evaluated by team medical personnel, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

Dalton had been traveling with his wife, three children and dog, but none required emergency medical attention after the accident. The quarterback may still have suffered an injury, however, and the Panthers will likely provide an update on his condition Wednesday after the team medical staff evaluates him. After supplanting Bryce Young as the Panthers' starting quarterback beginning in Week 3, Dalton has guided Carolina to a 1-4 record while completing 66.7 percent of his throws for 989 yards (6.2 YPA), seven touchdowns and six interceptions.

Dalton completed 11 of 16 passes for 93 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions in Sunday's 40-7 loss to the Commanders. He added two rushes for three yards.

Dalton has been uneven as the Panthers' starter, but he was unable to get the offense moving in Sunday's blowout loss for his worst performance of the season. He led Carolina's offense to just 10 total first downs, which limited its time of possession to just 24:55. The results were disastrous for the entire unit, and Dalton was ultimately benched midway through the final quarter. It's unclear if the team is considering returning to Bryce Young as its starter, but Dalton's recent performances have certainly justified a potential switch under center.

Dalton completed 26 of 38 pass attempts for 221 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions while rushing three times for 21 yards in Sunday's 38-20 loss to the Falcons.

Dalton got the nod under center against the Falcons despite being pulled for poor performance late in last week's loss to the Bears. The 36-year-old showed improved results in Week 6 despite being saddled with another loss. That being said, Dalton's upside for next Sunday's tilt against Washington leaves much to be desired for a player who has thrown four interceptions over the last three weeks.

Dalton completed 18 of 28 passes for 136 yards with no touchdowns and one interception and rushed once for three yards in the Panthers' 36-10 loss to the Bears on Sunday. He also committed two fumbles, recovering both.

Dalton was ultimately replaced by Bryce Young with 4:15 remaining, but Joe Person of The Athletic reports that head coach Dave Canales has already committed to the veteran signal-caller as his Week 6 starter against the Falcons. Nevertheless, Dalton had his most pedestrian day yet as the Panthers' starting quarterback against the very tough defense of one of his former squads, and he was fortunate to avoid a multi-turnover game. Canales also had praise for the way Young played during his cameo, so if Dalton struggles again versus Atlanta, it's possible a switch is made for the second straight week.

Dalton completed 25 of his 40 pass attempts for 220 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in Sunday's 34-24 loss to the Bengals.

Dalton's performance Sunday wasn't as impressive as Week 3's win over the Raiders. The 36-year-old quarterback was forced to throw the ball more than the Panthers likely intended, as the team faced a 17-point deficit in the second half of Week 4's loss. However, the Dalton supported two great fantasy performances from wide receivers Diontae Johnson and Xavier Legette, who posted 7-83-1 and 6-66-1 receiving lines, respectively. Dalton appears to have Carolina's offense in a much better spot than Bryce Young did in his two games, and the Panthers' top weapons are expected to continue being fantasy-relevant as long as Dalton remains the team's starting QB.

Head coach Dave Canales confirmed that Dalton will remain the Panthers' starting quarterback for Sunday's home game against the Bengals, David Newton of ESPN.com reports. "Andy's our quarterback," Canales said Monday. "He gives us our best chance to win. That's the approach as we get ready for the Bengals."

Canales' pronouncement comes as little surprise after Dalton stepped into the starting role Week 3 in place of demoted 2023 No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young and revitalized an offense that had averaged 176 yards and 6.5 points in blowout losses to the Saints and Chargers in the first two weeks of the season. In leading the Panthers to a convincing 36-22 win over the Raiders, Dalton completed 26 of 37 passes for 319 yards and three touchdowns while Carolina rolled to its second-best scoring total in five seasons. While the sizable investment in Young could eventually prompt Carolina to turn the starting job back over to him later in the season -- especially if the rebuilding Panthers predictably fade from the playoff picture -- the 36-year-old Dalton should have a decent amount of leash if he continues to oversee a competent offense. Dalton offers little production as a runner at this stage of his career and is working with below-average talent at the skill positions, but on sheer passing volume alone, he could

Dalton completed 26 of 37 passes for 319 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions in Sunday's 36-22 win over the Raiders.

Dalton replaced the beleaguered Bryce Young and got the Carolina offense moving. He threw all three of his touchdowns in the first half, highlighted by an impressive 31-yard toss to Adam Thielen (hamstring) just before halftime that beautifully split a double team. Six of Dalton's completions went for at least 20 yards, while Young tallied only two across his two starts this season. In addition to Dalton's own impressive performance, he effectively got Carolina's pass catchers involved --most notably Diontae Johnson.

The Panthers will start Dalton versus the Raiders in Week 3 and send 2023 No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young to the bench, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Dalton will get an opportunity to see whether he can spark Carolina's offense, which added wideouts Diontae Johnson and rookie first-round pick Xavier Legette over the offseason, with the hope of improving things alongside incumbent Adam Thielen. In two games this season Young threw just 245 passing yards combined, plus three interceptions, with a miserable 3.2 yards per pass attempt Week 2 versus the Chargers. Dalton's starting tenure will begin with a tough Week 3 road matchup against Las Vegas, but if he can stabilize things on offense for the 0-2 Panthers, the 36-year-old veteran could have a clear path to retaining the No. 1 gig for the remainder of the 2024 season.

Dalton (quadriceps) returned to practice Wednesday, David Newton of ESPN.com Reports.

Dalton injured his quad Aug. 1 and was expected to need a couple of weeks to recover. The veteran quarterback should have a firm grasp on the Panthers' backup job to starter Bryce Young.

Dalton injured his quad in practice Thursday and will be sidelined for a couple of weeks, Steve Reed of the Associated Press reports.

Dalton has a firm grasp on the backup quarterback job in Carolina, so this absence shouldn't affect his standing with the team. However, he could be sidelined for the entirety of preseason action, which would leave Jack Plummer to handle large portions of games.

Dalton finished the regular season with 34 completions on 58 attempts for 361 yards, two touchdowns and zero interceptions in three games.

Dalton's passing production all came in Week 3 while starting in place of the injured Bryce Young. Although the Panthers lost that game, it was their highest output in passing yardage all season. At 36 years old, Dalton remains under contract for next season, when he could remain one of the league best backups while Young attempts to advance his development under a new coaching staff.

Dalton (illness) is active for Sunday's game against the Titans, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

The backup quarterback was added to the injury report Sunday morning. Dalton should remain in his role behind rookie starter Bryce Young. The 13-year veteran has played on 77 offensive snaps in 2023.

Dalton is dealing with an illness ahead of Sunday's matchup with the Titans, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

The backup quarterback to rookie No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young is listed as questionable on the injury report. Dalton has played in three games and on 77 offensive snaps this season.

With Bryce Young (ankle) set to return for Sunday's Week 4 game against the Vikings, Dalton is expected to return to No. 2 duties, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

Young was a full participant in Wednesday's practice, putting him on track for Week 4. In his absence against the Seahawks, Dalton completed 34 of 58 passes for 361 yards and two touchdowns, adding two carries for 11 yards. Dalton remains one of the top backups in the league.

Dalton completed 34 of 58 passes for 361 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 37-27 loss to the Seahawks. He added 11 rushing yards on two carries.

With Bryce Young (ankle) sidelined, Dalton got his first start of the season and produced more passing yards than the rookie had in his two starts combined. Dalton leaned heavily on the veteran wideouts Carolina brought in this offseason, tossing a 47-yard TD to DJ Chark in the second quarter before finding Adam Thielen for a 15-yard score inside the final two minutes of the fourth, and that duo were on the other end of nearly two-thirds (64 percent) of Dalton's yards. Young will reclaim the starting role for the rebuilding Panthers as soon as he's healthy, but those with fantasy shares in Thielen and Chark may hope Dalton is still under center in Week 4 against a vulnerable Vikings secondary that just got torched for 454 yards and four TDs through the air by the Chargers.

Dalton is slated to start Sunday's road matchup against the Seahawks with top quarterback Bryce Young (ankle) ruled out, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Dalton has worked with Carolina's first-team offense in practice all week with Young sidelined, so he should be prepared for his first start in a Panthers uniform. The 35-year-old veteran showcased accuracy and efficiency across his 14 starts with the Saints last season, but he now faces the challenge of managing a less proven wide receiver corps headlined by Adam Thielen, DJ Chark and Jonathan Mingo. Considering that Young ranks last among qualified QBs with 4.2 yards per attempt through the first two games of the season, though, Dalton stepping in under center could provide a boost for Carolina's passing offense.

Dalton is in line to start Sunday's game in Seattle after the Panthers announced Thursday that No. 1 quarterback Bryce Young (ankle) is unlikely to play, Darin Gantt of the team's official site reports.

Young hasn't yet been officially ruled out for Sunday, but after logging no activity in practices Wednesday and Thursday after injuring his ankle in Monday's loss to to the Saints, he doesn't look as though he'll be available in anything more than a backup capacity if he suits up this weekend. For the second day in a row, Dalton worked with the first-team offense to prepare himself for what would be his first start with the Panthers. As a 14-game starter for the Saints a season ago, Dalton completed 66.7 percent of his passes for 7.6 yards per attempt and an 18:9 TD:INT, but he could struggle to replicate that level of efficiency while playing alongside a Carolina pass-catching corps that's less talented than what he worked with a year ago.

Dalton will work with the first-team offense at Thursday's practice with Bryce Young (ankle) sitting out the session and appears to be in line to start Sunday's game in Seattle, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

Young picked up the ankle injury at some point during Monday's 20-17 loss to the Saints and will now be listed as a non-participant on the Panthers' first two Week 3 practice reports. Though Young could get back on the field Friday to practice in some fashion, David Newton of ESPN.com notes that Thursday's session is the most critical of the week for the Panthers with regard to installing their game plan for the matchup with Seattle. Additionally, Person notes that Dalton is set to meet with the media Thursday, an indication the Panthers are planning to proceed with him as their starter for Week 3. The 35-year-old is little more than a competent game manager at this stage of his career, but Dalton's experience, accuracy and ability to limit mistakes might be enough to lift up a Carolina offense that has struggled under Young's stewardship for the first two weeks of the season.

Dalton led the starting offense in Wednesday's practice with Bryce Young unavailable due to an ankle injury, Steve Reed of the Associated Press reports.

Young wasn't removed from Monday's 20-17 loss to the Saints -- apart from one short-yardage snap Dalton took -- but the rookie apparently injured his ankle at some point and now is on a short week ahead of Sunday's game in Seattle. It might help the Carolina pass catchers if Dalton ends up under center for a week or two, as Young ranks last among qualified passers with 4.2 YPA and is bottom five in a slew of other stats.

Dalton (back) completed six of his 11 pass attempts for 61 yards and an interception in Friday's 26-17 preseason loss to the Lions.

Dalton had missed over a week of practice due to a back injury, but it never seemed particularly serious. The veteran is expected to to be the backup to 2023 No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young after the Panthers announced the rookie would operate as the team's starter all the way back in July. 2022 third-round pick Matt Corral will likely operate as the team's No. 3 quarterback in the event he's on the 53-man roster to start the season.

Offensive coordinator Thomas Brown said Tuesday that Dalton is dealing with back tightness, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

Dalton's back issue doesn't currently sound like it could impact his Week 1 availability, but the veteran backup's status should still be monitored. No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young is locked in as the Panthers' starter, but Dalton remains one of the league's most experienced backups and should be key as a mentor for the rookie. As long as Dalton is sidelined, 2022 third-round pick Matt Corral will figure to see increased reps behind Young.

Dalton is expected to open the season as Carolina's No. 2 quarterback after head coach Frank Reich announced Wednesday that he views Bryce Young as the team's starter, David Newton of ESPN.com reports. "Yes, he's QB1," Reich said of Young.

Even though Young was selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft in April, Dalton still opened summer OTAs atop the depth chart, but it didn't take long for the rookie to pass him up. Young ended up working with the first-team offense during minicamp in June, and the Panthers evidently saw enough from the Alabama product in those workouts to convince the coaching staff that he wouldn't need to battle Dalton for the starting gig in camp. Dalton likely signed a two-year deal with Carolina in March with the understanding that he wouldn't be much more than an insurance policy at quarterback in 2023, coming off a solid if unspectacular season with the Saints in which he posted an 18:9 TD:INT and 7.6 YPA. He'll still profile as one of the more accomplished backup signal-callers in the league and should be able to keep the Carolina offense afloat in the event Young misses time at any point this season.

Head coach Frank Reich told reporters Thursday that Dalton is working primarily with the second team with Bryce Young being elevated to the starting quarterback spot, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

Dalton was listed as the starting quarterback during voluntary offseason workouts and began each drill with the first unit. The plan was always for Young to assume the starting role and Reich noted that he didn't tell Young he was the starter until the end of last week. Dalton will assume the backup role and work primarily with the second team during next week's three-day mandatory camp. Dalton was brought in by the Panthers in March after starting in 14 games for the Saints last season and he will continue to serve as a veteran mentor for Young.

Dalton will work with the first-team offense during summer OTAs, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

This isn't entirely surprising given Bryce Young, the No. 1 overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft, has had essentially two weeks to look over the team's playbook. It wouldn't be a shock to hear head coach Frank Reich give the veteran Dalton every opportunity to win the starting job out of preseason, if only to let Young really get his feet wet at the professional level, but given the sheer draft capital invested in the Alabama product, it's hard to imagine Dalton will see first-string reps for very long.

With Panthers having chosen Bryce Young with the top overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Dalton is expected to serve as the rookie's backup this coming season, Joseph Person of The Athletic reports.

Dalton, who signed a two-year deal with the team in March, brings plenty of NFL starting experience to the table, but given the Panthers' significant investment in trading up to land Young, the 35-year-old seems destined to work in a reserve role in 2023 while mentoring the team's young signal-caller. If the 5-foot-10, 204-pound Young struggles at all out of the gate or suffers any injuries, Dalton provides the franchise with a reliable insurance policy. However, for the time being, the 2011 second-round pick, who started 14 games for the Saints in 2022, is off the fantasy re-draft radar.

With Panthers having chosen Bryce Young with the top overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Dalton is expected to serve as the rookie's backup this coming season, Joseph Person of The Athletic reports.

Dalton, who signed a two-year deal with the team in March, brings plenty of NFL starting experience to the table, but given the Panthers' significant investment in trading up to land Young, the 35-year-old seems destined to work in a reserve role in 2023, while mentoring the team's young signal-caller. If the 5-foot-10, 204-pound Young struggles at all out of the gate or suffers any injuries, Dalton provides the franchise with a reliable insurance policy, but for now the 2011 second-rounder, who started 14 games for the Saints in 2022, is off the fantasy re-draft radar.

The Panthers agreed to terms with Dalton on a two-year, $10 million contract, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

The deal contains $8 million guaranteed. The Panthers will be 35-year-old Dalton's fifth different team in the last five years after spending nine seasons with the Bengals. Dalton started 14 games for the Saints last season, completing 66.7 percent of his passes for 2,871 yards, 18 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. In Carolina, he'll be the presumed backup to whichever quarterback the Panthers select with the No. 1 overall pick next month.

Dalton completed 15 of 25 passes for 171 yards and one touchdown during Sunday's 10-7 loss to the Panthers.

Dalton got out to a solid start Week 18, as he went 4-for-4 passing for 59 yards and a 25-yard passing touchdown on the opening drive. However, he still wound up logging fewer than 200 passing yards for the fifth time in his 14 starts this season. The 35-year-old signal-caller finishes the 2022 campaign with a 66.7 completion percentage on 378 attempts for 2,871 yards and 18 touchdowns to nine interceptions. Dalton was expected to serve as the Saints' No. 2 quarterback after signing a one-year, $3 million contract with the team last offseason, though he took over the starting job after Jameis Winston missed time with back and ankle injuries early in the season. With Winston still under contract heading into the 2023 campaign, it's unclear if the team will want to bring Dalton back for another year.

Dalton completed 18 of 22 passes for 204 yards, no touchdowns and one interception in Sunday's 20-10 win over the Eagles.

Dalton and the Saints were in surprisingly positive game script throughout the contest, so he wasn't asked to do much. He threw an interception just before halftime deep in Philadelphia territory, but Dalton otherwise managed the game effectively. Despite the victory, Dalton has now failed to throw for multiple touchdowns in four of his last five games, and he's topped 204 passing yards just once in that span.

Dalton completed eight of 15 passes for 92 yards and one interception during Saturday's 17-10 win over Cleveland.

Dalton attempted a season-low 15 passes during Saturday's frigid temperatures and steady winds. With top wideout Chris Olave (hamstring) inactive, the 35-year-old signal-caller was also let down with multiple drops by New Orleans' receivers. This included an interception late in the first quarter on a pass that bounced off the hands of tight end Juwan Johnson and directly to awaiting Browns safety Grant Delpit. Dalton went on to attempt just seven passes over the remaining three quarters of the game, as the Saints offense shifted to an option rushing attack between versatile quarterback Taysom Hill and running back Alvin Kamara. However, Dalton still accounted for all of the team's passing attempts in this game, so this unique game plan is unlikely to affect his official status as the team's starting quarterback moving forward.

Dalton went 11-for-17 passing for 151 yards and two touchdowns during Sunday's 21-18 victory versus the Falcons.

Dalton logged season lows in passing yards and attempts during the Saints' run-heavy attack Week 15. He also wasn't involved in the team's longest play from scrimmage, as change-of-pace quarterback Taysom Hill connected with Rashid Shaheed for a 68-yard touchdown in the first quarter. However, Dalton once again showed why he deserves to be the team's starting quarterback, completing at least 64 percent of his passes for the eighth time in his 11 starts this season. He also connected with Juwan Johnson for two touchdowns during the tight end's return from a one-game absence due to an ankle injury. Dalton's fantasy upside should remain limited if New Orleans continues to utilize a two-quarterback approach Week 16 versus Cleveland.

Dalton will remain the starter under center in Week 15 against the Falcons, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

If the 4-9 Saints wanted to go back to Jameis Winston under center, the Week 14 bye offered the perfect opportunity to do so. New Orleans believes Dalton gives the team a better chance to win, as the Saints have no incentive to lose given that the Eagles own their first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft and New Orleans is only two games back of the NFC South-leading Buccaneers in the standings.

Dalton was 20-for-28 passing for 229 yards and one touchdown during Monday's 17-16 loss to the Buccaneers.

Dalton logged one of his cleanest performances of the season, accumulating 8.2 yards per attempt against a Tampa Bay defense that was tied for fifth in yards per attempt allowed (6.6) coming into Week 13. However, the veteran still posted fewer than 250 passing yards for the eighth time in his 10 starts. His scoring production also remained limited by New Orleans' inefficiency in the red zone, as the team settled for field goals of 38, 21 and 29 yards. This unit will now have a bye week to rest and recover before taking on the Falcons' 26th-ranked passing defense Week 15.

Dalton completed 18 of 29 pass attempts for 204 yards and rushed four times for 21 yards in Sunday's 13-0 loss to the 49ers.

It was a game to forget for Dalton and the entire New Orleans offense after they were shut out for the first time since 2002. Outside of a couple of missed throws, the veteran quarterback didn't actually play all that poorly, producing his second straight game with 200 passing yards and no turnovers. Dalton should remain a middling fantasy option when the Saints take on the Buccaneers on Monday Night Football in Week 13.

Dalton was 21-for-25 passing for 260 yards and three touchdowns during Sunday's 27-20 victory over the Rams.

Amid speculation about whether Jameis Winston should take over as New Orleans' starting quarterback, Dalton responded with his best outing of the season Week 11. Despite taking three sacks while working behind a patchwork offensive line, the 35-year-old was able to complete all but four of his passing attempts in the face of a Rams pass rush headlined by Aaron Donald. The quarterback also threw a game-long 53-yard touchdown pass to Chris Olave down the middle of the field in the third quarter, putting the Saints up 24-14. While this performance should secure Dalton's starting job for the time being, he's set for another tough test next week against the 49ers.

Coach Dennis Allen said Wednesday that Dalton will be the Saints' starting quarterback Sunday against the Rams, Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com reports.

During Dalton's seven previous starts this season, the Saints have gone 2-5 to fall to 3-7 overall. And he had perhaps his worst performance of the campaign this past Sunday at Pittsburgh, where he completed 17 of 27 passes for 174 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in a 27-17 loss. Still, Allen will continue to roll with Dalton under center, even though Jameis Winston seemingly can play at the moment.

Dalton completed 17 of his 27 passes for 174 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in Sunday's 20-10 loss to the Steelers.

Dalton turned in another poor effort, highlighted by two fourth-quarter interceptions, the first of which up a Steelers' touchdown and another that effectively ended the game. The primary positive to take from his performance was a 15-yard touchdown to Juwan Johnson just before halftime. However, Dalton has failed to top 200 passing yards in three of his seven games as the Saints' starter and has only one touchdown in five of those matchups. With Jameis Winston fully healthy, Dalton could be at risk of losing his starting job.

Dalton completed 19 of 29 passes for 210 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Monday's 27-13 loss to the Ravens. He added two rushes for five yards.

Dalton's final stat line doesn't look terrible, but he padded it significantly in garbage time. His lone touchdown went for 41 yards with the Saints down 27-7 late in the fourth quarter, and the Ravens gave up on the play after mistakenly believing that Juwan Johnson had stepped out of bounds. While Dalton has likely done enough to maintain his starting role heading into a Week 10 matchup against the Steelers, he has managed only one total touchdown in four of his six games on the season.

Dalton completed 22 of 30 passes for 229 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 24-0 win over the Raiders.

Dalton found tailback Alvin Kamara on both of his scores. Without any turnovers or sacks, it was a clean performance from the signal caller, who was picked off three times in Week 7's defeat. On the back of his first multi-touchdown win as a Saint, Dalton has helped his stock ahead of his upcoming matchup versus the Ravens.

Dalton will start Sunday's game against the Raiders.

Coach Dennis Allen made the announcement Wednesday, adding that the Saints now consider Jameis Winston to be healthy, per Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com. It's thus clear Dalton has moved ahead of his teammate on the depth chart, rather than merely being an injury replacement while Winston finishes up his recovery from back and ankle injuries. Of course, Dalton could also lose the job back to Winston if he doesn't perform well.

Dalton completed 30 of 47 attempts for 361 yards with four touchdowns and three interceptions in the Saints' 42-34 loss to the Cardinals on Thursday night. He also rushed four times for 21 yards.

Dalton's night was the epitome of a mixed bag, as he offset his highest passing yardage total since Week 16 of the 2020 season with three back-breaking interceptions, the first at the Cardinals' nine-yard line followed by a pair of pick-sixes on back-to-back possessions late in the second quarter that changed the dynamic of the game for good. To his credit, Dalton kept battling with a short-handed pass-catching corps down Michael Thomas (foot) and Jarvis Landry (ankle) and helped get New Orleans within eight points via a pair of fourth-quarter touchdown passes to Juwan Johnson before the rally fell short. Despite the gaudy numbers, it's likely Jameis Winston (back/ankle), who's been healthy enough to serve as the No. 2 quarterback the last two games, returns to starting duty for a Week 8 home matchup against the Raiders a week from Sunday.

Coach Dennis Allen confirmed Dalton (back) will be the Saints' starting quarterback Thursday at Arizona, Omar Ruiz of NFL Network reports.

Both Dalton and Jameis Winston (back/ankle) avoided designations for New Orleans' Week 7 matchup, but the team will continue to roll with the former for at least one more game. The team doesn't want to press Winston into action prematurely after he's dealt with four small fractures in his back, an ankle issue and a hip flexor injury already this season. Meanwhile, Dalton will earn a fourth consecutive start under center, which so far has resulted in 585 yards passing, three touchdowns and one interception on the first three occasions.

Dalton is trending toward a start Thursday versus the Cardinals, but the Saints have yet to officially name a starter, Katherine Terrell of ESPN reports.

Coach Dennis Allen declined to officially name a starter for Thursday between Dalton and Jameis Winston (back/ankle), saying "I think we'll just wait 'til game time," but Terrell reports that 'signs point' toward the team continuing to roll with Dalton on a short week. Winston remains limited in practice but doesn't have an injury designation, while Dalton practiced in full Wednesday after opening the week with back-to-back limited sessions. If Dalton indeed starts Thursday in Arizona, which may not become official until shortly before the 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff, he will have standout rookie Chris Olave back from the concussion protocol, but have to operate without Michael Thomas (foot) and Jarvis Landry (ankle), in addition to guard Andrus Peat (pectoral).

Dalton (back) practiced fully Wednesday and doesn't have a designation for Thursday's game in Arizona.

Coach Dennis Allen told Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football earlier Wednesday that he hasn't made a call on the Saints' starting quarterback for Week 7 between Dalton and Jameis Winston (back/ankle), the latter of whom was limited Monday through Wednesday but also avoided a designation for Thursday. Dalton himself opened the week with back-to-back capped sessions before logging every rep Wednesday, making it clear he's in a better spot than Winston, health-wise. Ultimately, Allen doesn't have to make his decision known before Thursday's kickoff, but if Dalton gets the nod, he again won't have wide receivers Michael Thomas (foot) or Jarvis Landry (ankle) at his disposal.

Coach Dennis Allen said Wednesday that he'll wait until Thursday to decide between Dalton (back) and Jameis Winston (back/ankle) as the starting quarterback for Thursday's game in Arizona, Erin Summers of the Saints' official website reports.

Health presumably will be a key factor, with Dalton likely in better shape from that standpoint despite dealing with a back injury that limited his practice participation this week. Winston is recovering from back fractures and an ankle injury, having served as Dalton's backup in a loss to the Bengals on Sunday. Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football believes Dalton is likely to start Thursday's game.

The Saints listed Dalton (back) as a limited participant at Tuesday's practice.

Dalton was labeled as a limited participant on Monday's estimated practice report, and he maintained that level of activity when the Saints got on the field for the first time since Sunday's loss to the Bengals. Jameis Winston (back/ankle) was also listed as a limited participant, but Dalton may be the healthier of the two signal-callers at this stage, as John Hendrix of SI.com notes that Dalton was taking the first-team reps in the open portion of Tuesday's session. Barring a dramatic increase in his activities Wednesday, Winston looks like he could miss out on a fourth straight start Thursday, when the Saints face the Cardinals in Arizona. Winston could still be available as an emergency backup behind Dalton, provided the latter doesn't regress in his own recovery from a back injury and is able to start on a short week.

Dalton (back) was listed as a limited participant on Monday's estimated injury report, Nick Underhill of NewOrleans.Football reports.

Dalton has started three consecutive contests in the place of Jameis Winston (back/ankle), who was active for Week 6 but still not 100 percent, but the veteran quarterback appears to have picked up an injury of his own. The extent of Dalton's back injury remains unclear, but Tuesday and Wednesday's injury reports should provide further clarity on the situation.

Dalton completed 17 of 32 pass attempts for 162 yards and one touchdown (no turnovers) in Sunday's 30-26 loss to the Bengals.

Dalton wasn't as efficient as we'd seen in his last two starts in place of Jameis Winston (back/ankle), but he did have the Saints leading late in the fourth quarter. The aforementioned Winston was healthy enough to suit up as the backup, but it was reported before the game that Dalton could continue to start with strong play, according to NFL.com's Ian Rapoport. It is worth noting that the veteran signal-caller was without his three top receiving options, but the results were still vanilla from a fantasy standpoint. Should Dalton continue to start for New Orleans, he would do so on a short week against the Cardinals on Thursday.

Dalton is expected to be working without each of his top three receivers while he makes his third consecutive start Sunday against the Bengals, ESPN.com reports.

Though top signal-caller Jameis Winston (back/ankle) is listed as questionable for the contest, he's unlikely to be available as anything more than a backup option behind Dalton, who has managed the Saints to a 1-1 record over his previous two starts. In those games, Dalton hasn't been asked to do much, as he's attempted just 52 passes, completing 69.2 percent of those throws for 8.1 yards per attempt and a 2:1 TD:INT. Even if a negative game script forces Dalton to drop back more frequently Sunday, he won't have many established weapons to work with in the passing game aside from running back Alvin Kamara. Michael Thomas (foot) and Jarvis Landry (ankle) have already been ruled out for their third and second straight games, respectively, while standout rookie Chris Olave is listed as questionable but is still experiencing concussion symptoms and isn't likely to play. Additionally, depth wideout Deonte Harty (foot) was moved to injured reserve Saturday, leaving Tre'Quan Smith, Marquez Callaway, Keith Kirkwood,

Dalton will start Sunday's game against the Bengals, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Jameis Winston (back/ankle) has been a limited participant in practice this week and might be available as the backup, but Dalton will get at least one more start, leading an offense that's without Michael Thomas (foot) for a third straight game. Dalton has only 52 pass attempts and two TDs through two starts, with the Saints going run-heavy and using Taysom Hill for a lot of direct snaps, especially in the red zone. Wide receivers Chris Olave (concussion) and Jarvis Landry (ankle) also appear in danger of missing Sunday's game, furthering the case for a run-first offense, though Cincinnati's solid front seven might have something to say about it.

Dalton completed 16 of 24 passes for 187 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Sunday's 39-32 win over the Seahawks.

Dalton made his second consecutive start in the absence of Jameis Winston (back). While his stat line was uninspiring, Dalton successfully distributed the ball to key playmakers such as Chris Olave (concussion) and Alvin Kamara. Though Dalton has filled in relatively effectively for Winston, it's worth noting that Taysom Hill lined up as the team's quarterback on several occasions, taking away opportunity from Dalton. Hill could remain involved, particularly so long as the Saints remain without Michael Thomas (foot) and Jarvis Landry (ankle).

Dalton will start Sunday's game against the Seahawks, while fellow quarterback Jameis Winston (back/ankle) likely will be listed as doubtful, Mike Triplett of NewOrleans.Football reports.

In other words, Winston has a slim chance to be active but only as the backup, Dalton thus gets another start after completing 20 of 28 passes for 236 yards and one touchdown in a 28-25 loss to the Vikings in London last week. The Saints may be missing WR Michael Thomas (foot) again, but RB Alvin Kamara (ribs) is on track to return and face one of the worst defenses in the NFL.

Dalton completed 20 of 28 passes for 236 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions in Sunday's 28-25 loss to the Vikings.

Dalton filled in admirably for Jameis Winston (back) and came up just short of leading the Saints to victory. He tallied his lone touchdown midway through the second quarter on a four-yard toss to Chris Olave. Though Dalton won't get credit on the stat sheet, he led two additional touchdown drives to keep the Saints competitive. It's unclear whether Winston will be available for a Week 5 matchup against the Seahawks, but Dalton showed the ability to fill in capably.

With Jameis Winston (back/ankle) inactive, Dalton is slated to start Sunday's game against the Vikings, The New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

Dalton thus represents a fantasy lineup option for those who roster Winston or are looking for added short term depth in QB-heavy formats. That said, the veteran signal caller will be helming an offense Sunday that will be without key cogs Alvin Kamara (ribs) and Michael Thomas (foot), a context that could limit his Week 4 upside.

Dalton is expected to start Sunday's game against the Vikings with Jameis Winston (back/hip/ankle) listed as doubtful, Adam Hoge of AllCHGO.com reports.

Dalton will have to work without Michael Thomas (foot) if he indeed takes the field Sunday, leaving Chris Olave and Jarvis Landry (ankle) as his likely top wideouts. Taysom Hill (ribs) would, in turn, be in line to act as Dalton's backup. The veteran signal-caller becomes a fantasy option worth consideration for needy teams in formats that start multiple quarterbacks, if Winston is indeed ruled out for Week 4.

The Saints are slated to sign Dalton, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

The report indicates that it's a one-year deal for Dalton worth up to $6 million, with $3 million guaranteed. The 34-year-old, who logged six starts for the Bears in 2021, gives the Saints an experienced backup option behind presumed starter Jameis Winston, who's bouncing back from a torn ACL. Meanwhile, the move seems to advance the notion that the team will indeed use Taysom Hill primarily as a tight end instead of as a quarterback this coming season.

Dalton completed 33 of 48 passes for 325 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions in the Bears' 31-17 Week 18 loss to the Vikings, and he ended the season with 1,515 passing yards, eight touchdown passes and nine interceptions over eight games.

On the season, Dalton had six starts, but in only one of those contests did he have more touchdown passes than interceptions. Although he technically has a $5MM contract in 2022, it's a void year, and the Bears would owe him nothing if they choose to part ways with the 11-year veteran. Regardless, he'll likely continue to be a useful backup in the league in his age-34 season, and his fantasy value would be dependent upon whether he's able to draw any starts.

Dalton will start Sunday's game in Minnesota, Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic reports.

Coach Matt Nagy suggested as much earlier in the week and confirmed it Friday afternoon. Justin Fields was on track to return from an ankle injury for the season finale, only to land on the reserve/COVID-19 list and give Dalton another start in what could be his final appearance for the Bears. The Chicago offense is in good health apart from Fields, with no other starters on the final injury report, COVID list or injured reserve.

Dalton is expected to make a second straight start in Sunday's season finale at Minnesota after the Bears placed Justin Fields (illness) on the reserve/COVID-19 list Thursday, Jason Lieser of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.

Fields is vaccinated and therefore has a chance to test out of the NFL's COVID-19 return-to-play protocol in fewer than five days, but given the timing of his placement on the list, he'll more than likely miss a third consecutive game to end his rookie campaign. Along with Fields, Dalton was sidelined Week 16 in Seattle due to a small fracture non-throwing hand, but the latter stepped back into the lineup for the Bears' Week 17 win over the Giants. Over his seven appearances (five starts) this season, Dalton has completed 61.7 percent of his throws for 6.3 yards per attempt and a 7:7 TD:INT while carrying 15 times for 69 yards.

Dalton is set to return to a backup role with Justin Fields (ankle) named as the starter for Week 18 against Minnesota, ESPN's Jesse Rogers reports.

It was a disappointing season overall for both Dalton and Fields, but with some promising signs at the end, including last week's blowout win over the Giants in what might be Dalton's last taste of action with the Bears. The 34-year-old QB is scheduled for unrestricted free agency in the offseason, and there's no guarantee of another shot at a Week 1 starting job.

Dalton completed 18 of 35 passes for 173 yards with a touchdown and an interception in the Bears' 29-3 win over the Giants on Sunday.

Dalton connected on an early touchdown pass to Darnell Mooney, but he barely completed half of his passes in a blowout win. With the Bears unable to have consistent success on the ground, they threw the ball more than they ran it, but Dalton was unable to click with anyone other than Darnell Mooney. If Justin Fields (ankle) is unable to play in Week 18 against the Vikings, Dalton may be a fantasy option in leagues that start two quarterbacks.

Dalton will start Sunday's game against the Giants, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reports.

Justin Fields (ankle) is listed as questionable, but coach Matt Nagy said Nick Foles will serve as the No. 2 quarterback Sunday. While it's possible the plan changes for the season finale, Nagy did say earlier this week that Fields would need to be "extremely healthy" in order to play. Chicago's offense is otherwise in good shape from a health standpoint, while the Giants have two or three potential injury/virus absences on the defensive line, plus CB Adoree' Jackson (quad/illness) listed as questionable.

Dalton (hand/groin) was a full practice participant Wednesday, while teammate Justin Fields (ankle) was limited.

Coach Matt Nagy said he'll be careful with Fields, but also left the door open for any of Chicago's quarterbacks to get the Week 17 start. Option C would be Nick Foles, who led the team to a win in Seattle this past weekend with both Fields and Dalton sidelined by injuries.

Dalton (left hand/groin) has been ruled out for Sunday's contest at Seattle.

Dalton recently spent nearly a week on the reserve/COVID-19 list, but upon his return to the active roster Thursday he put in a full practice. He proceeded to miss Friday's session entirely and won't be available to the Bears in Week 16. With Justin Fields (ankle) potentially not able to serve as even a backup Sunday, coach Matt Nagy has tabbed Nick Foles as the team's starting quarterback, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. Dalton's next chance to play will be Sunday, Jan. 2 against the Giants.

Dalton (left hand/groin), whom the Bears activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list Thursday, logged a full practice in his return to the team.

Prior to landing on the COVID-19 list, Dalton was dealing with a small fracture in his non-throwing hand. He was listed with that precise injury on Thursday's practice report, but a groin issue accompanied it. Still, Dalton handled every practice rep at the same time Justin Fields (ankle) downgraded from 'limited' Wednesday to DNP one day later. The development could be setting the table for Dalton to earn another spot start this weekend in Seattle, but Fields has one more chance to mix into drills this week before the Bears travel west for Sunday's 4:05 p.m. ET kickoff.

Chicago reinstated Dalton (hand) from the reserve/COVID-19 list Thursday, Larry Mayer of the Bears' official site reports.

Dalton returns to the 53-man roster after a six-day day stint on the list. Before being deactivated and then missing the Bears' Week 15 loss to the Vikings, Dalton had been dealing with a fractured hand that prevented him from practicing seven days ago, but the time off may have allowed him to fully heal. Dalton is expected to serve as the Bears' No. 2 quarterback Sunday in Seattle, though he could be pressed into starting duty if Justin Fields isn't able to move past the minor ankle injury that limited his participation in Wednesday's practice.

Dalton will remain on the reserve/COVID-19 list and won't be available for Monday's game against the Vikings, Larry Mayer of the Bears' official site reports.

Dalton was placed on the list Friday, so he was facing an uphill battle to clear all COVID-19-related protocols ahead of Monday's contest. Nick Foles will serve as the top backup to starting quarterback Justin Fields in Week 15.

The Bears placed Dalton (hand) on the reserve/COVID-19 list Friday.

Dalton and cornerback Duke Shelley were deactivated for COVID-19-related reasons, becoming the 12th and 13th players on the roster to land on the list. Unless Dalton is quickly able to clear the necessary protocols in short order, he'll be sidelined for Monday's game against the Vikings. If that's the case, Nick Foles would serve as the understudy to starting quarterback Justin Fields.

Dalton (hand) did not practice Thursday ahead of the Bears' Monday night contest against the Vikings.

The quarterback came into the week with the expectation that he'd be available for Monday's game, but his inability to participate Thursday complicates the situation a little. Dalton will still have three more days to prove his health prior to the matchup with the Vikings and slot back in as the backup to Justin Fields.

Dalton (hand) is expected to be available for Monday Night Football against the Vikings in Week 15, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Rapoport reports that the Dalton's non-throwing hand has a small break, but it doesn't require surgery and should heal within a week. If Dalton is available for Week 15, he will resume backing up rookie Justin Fields, which would shift Nick Foles back to No. 3 on the depth chart.

Dalton (hand) is inactive for Sunday's contest at Green Bay.

Dalton injured his non-throwing hand during last Sunday's spot start against the Cardinals, and his inability to practice Wednesday through Friday didn't give him much of a chance to be available this weekend. Even if he was, though, he would have been Justin Fields' backup after the rookie was cleared to return from the small rib fractures that sidelined him the past two games. Instead, Nick Foles will serve as the No. 2 to Fields on Sunday.

Dalton (hand) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Packers.

Dalton was unable to practice in any capacity throughout the week. Luckily for the Bears, Dalton's expected absence coincides with the return of Justin Fields (ribs). Nick Foles will back up Fields if Dalton sits.

Dalton (hand) did not practice Thursday.

The 34-year-old has missed consecutive practices to open the week while dealing with the hand injury he suffered in Week 13. It was announced Wednesday that Justin Fields will start against the Packers on Sunday, so regardless of his health, Dalton will not be under center in Week 14.

Dalton (hand) won't take part in Wednesday's practice, Adam Hoge of NBC Sports Chicago reports.

Meanwhile, coach Matt Nagy relayed Wednesday that Justin Fields (ribs) has been medically cleared and will start Sunday at Green Bay. Nagy also noted that it's unclear if Dalton or Nick Foles will serve as Fields' backup Week 14, according to Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune. Such a determination likely will come down to Dalton mixing into drills in some capacity Thursday and/or Friday as he tends to an injury to his non-throwing hand, but in any case he's back in a reserve role with Fields healthy.

Coach Matt Nagy said that Dalton injured his non-throwing hand in the Bears' 33-22 loss to the Cardinals on Sunday Adam Hoge of NBCSChicago reports.

Dalton completed 26 of 41 passes for 229 yards with two touchdowns and four interceptions along with two rushes for six yards. He was under heavy pressure all day while the Cardinals did a solid job of taking Darnell Mooney away. Of his four interceptions, two came on passes that were misplayed by his receivers, though he did salvage his fantasy day with a pair of scoring passes in the second half after the Bears fell behind by 17 points. If his hand injury isn't significant, he'll continue to be a marginal option in leagues that start two quarterbacks until Justin Fields (ribs) returns to the lineup.

Dalton will start Sunday's game against the Cardinals with fellow quarterback Justin Fields (ribs) listed as doubtful, Jeff Dickerson of ESPN.comreports.

Fields was a limited practice participant throughout Wednesday through Friday and could make it back as soon as Week 14 in Green Bay. First, Dalton will make another start, likely without the help of Allen Robinson, who's listed as doubtful with a hamstring injury for the third week in a row (he missed the previous two games).

Dalton will take the first-team reps Wednesday, even though Justin Fields (ribs) is returning to practice, Adam Jahns of The Athletic reports.

Coach Matt Nagy has been clear about Fields starting once he's healthy, so it's possible the rookie takes over first-team reps by the end of the week if his ribs are feeling better. If not, Dalton will get another start Sunday against the Vikings, after leading the Bears to a dramatic victory over the winless Lions on Thanksgiving.

Dalton completed 24 of 39 passes for 317 yards and a touchdown with an interception in a 16-14 win over the Lions on Thanksgiving. He gained 11 yards on six carries.

While the veteran quarterback had some struggles when the Bears were in position to score, throwing one pick in the end zone and nearly throwing another on a drive that ended in a Chicago field goal, Dalton was able to lead his team on an 18-play, eight-and-a-half minute drive in the fourth quarter to set up Cairo Santos for a game-winning FG as time expired. Dalton will likely return to the bench if Justin Fields (ribs) is healthy for a Week 13 clash with the Cardinals, but with coach Matt Nagy apparently on the hot seat, he could be tempted to keep Dalton's steadier hand under center rather than live with the rookie's growing pains.

Coach Matt Nagy confirmed Tuesday Dalton will start under center Thursday against the Lions, Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic reports.

Dalton regains the starting job this week with Justin Fields sidelined by a rib injury suffered during Sunday's game against the Raiders, but Nagy did specify that Fields remains the starting quarterback, per Jason Lieser of the Chicago Sun-Times. The veteran finished the day against the Ravens completing just 11 of his 23 pass attempts, but he did compile 201 passing yards and a pair of passing touchdowns. He faces an underwhelming Lions secondary this week, so Dalton could be in line for a decent showing.

Dalton is expected to start in place of Justin Fields (ribs) on Thursday at Detroit, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Dalton stepped in for Fields after the rookie injured his ribs in the third quarter of Sunday's 16-13 loss to the Ravens, completing 11 of 23 passes for 201 yards and two touchdowns. Both scores were big gainers, as Darnell Mooney took a screen pass 60 yards to the house, while Marquise Goodwin burned the Baltimore secondary for a 49-yard strike. Without those plays, Dalton's stat line would have been a more stated 9-for-21 for 92 yards, but he'll fortunately have the Lions' 30th-ranked scoring defense in the other side Thursday as he gets a spot start in place of Fields.

After taking over for an injured Justin Fields (ribs), Dalton completed 11 of 23 yards for 201 yards and two touchdowns in the Bears' 16-13 loss to the Ravens on Sunday.

Dalton threw a screen pass to Darnell Mooney that turned into a long touchdown and later gave the Bears a late lead after Marquise Goodwin got behind the defense for a 49-yard strike. Otherwise, he completed less than half of his passes and was unable to sustain longer drives. Should Fields miss the Thanksgiving Day game against the Lions , Dalton could be a reasonable streaming option in leagues that start two quarterbacks.

Dalton (knee) will be a full practice participant Wednesday, but he's been demoted to the backup role behind Justin Fields, who coach Matt Nagy named as the new starter Wednesday afternoon, Larry Mayer of the Bears' official site reports.

Nagy changed his mind after previously saying Dalton would be the starter once he recovered from a bone bruise in his knee. The coach could always change his mind again if Fields continues to struggle, but he'll likely give the rookie at least a few weeks before considering another move.

Coach Matt Nagy said Monday that Dalton (knee) will start Week 5 if healthy, but that he still needs to be evaluated for two more days, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reports.

Nagy appears intent on making a decision about the Week 5 starter by Wednesday's first practice of the Week 5. Rookie signal-caller Justin Fields avoided mistakes during Sunday's divisional win over the Lions, and he connected on a handful of deep throws, but a lack of touchdowns or rushing yards kept him from finding real fantasy success. Meanwhile, Dalton's only complete game in a Bears uniform came Week 1 against the Rams, when he was held to 206 passing yards with one interception and one lost fumble.

Dalton (knee) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Lions, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reports.

With Dalton out again, Justin Fields will be under center Sunday and looking to redeem himself after a dreadful 6-for-20 passing performance Week 3 in Cleveland. Behind Fields, Nick Foles is on hand to serve as Fields' backup.

The Bears have downgraded Dalton (knee) to doubtful for Sunday's game against the Lions, which will give Justin Fields another spot start.

After managing limited practices during Week 4 prep, Dalton was given a 'questionable' designation, likely to give the Bears a bit more time to examine the state of the bone bruise in his left knee. He likely just isn't healthy enough to retain the No. 1 quarterback job in Chicago, meaning a second absence in a row is on the horizon. With Dalton out again, Fields will be under center Sunday and looking to redeem himself after a dreadful 6-for-20 passing performance last Sunday in Cleveland. Behind Fields, Nick Foles is on hand to serve as Fields' backup.

Dalton (knee) remained limited at Friday's practice and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Lions. Coach Matt Nagy said Friday that his Week 4 starter will be a game-time decision, Adam Jahns of The Athletic reports.

It sounds like the Bears are leaving the door open for all possibilities, perhaps including a scenario where Dalton is technically active but Justin Fields gets the start. It does seem more likely Dalton would simply be ruled out, consider the Bears have a second veteran QB in Nick Foles who is capable of handling backup duties. Regardless, Nagy likely will try to avoid tipping his hand too far ahead of the 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff Sunday, so hints could be few and far between until the Bears release their inactive list around 11:30 a.m. Dalton is recovering from a bone bruise, and he may have to deal with considerable pain if he does end up playing. Fields's hand injury is far less serious, with the rookie avoiding a game designation altogether.

Dalton (knee) practiced in a limited capacity Thursday.

For a second straight session, Dalton continued to operate with a cap on his reps, while Justin Fields (right thumb) remained a full participant. The Bears have yet to name a starting quarterback for Week 4 against the Lions, which may mean coach Matt Nagy is waiting to see if Dalton will jump to full at Friday's practice. If the status quo holds, though, Dalton may yield another start to Fields.

Dalton (knee) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice.

While Dalton was limited in his return to practice, rookie QB Justin Fields (right thumb) managed full participation. Coach Matt Nagy said Dalton is still the starter when healthy, but it isn't yet clear if the veteran will be cleared for Sunday's game against the Lions. Dalton suffered a bone bruise in his left knee during the Week 2 win over Cincinnati.

Coach Matt Nagy expects both Dalton (knee) and Justin Fields (hand) to practice in some capacity Wednesday, also noting that Dalton is still atop the depth chart, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reports.

Dalton is still the starter, if healthy, but he's likely still dealing with pain/discomfort in his left knee a week and a half after suffering a bone bruise. While Fields' hand injury appears less serious, his putrid Week 3 performance as the fill-in starter could also be a factor here. As of Wednesday, it's unclear which QB will end up starting Sunday against Detroit.

Coach Matt Nagy said Monday that Dalton (knee) is still considered week-to-week, Doug Kyed of Pro Football Focus reports.

Dalton was held out of Sunday's Week 3 loss to the Browns due to a bone bruise in his left knee, but he isn't expected to miss significant time. However, he could still be sidelined for multiple games. A better idea of the 33-year-old's status for the team's Week 4 matchup against the Cowboys should come into focus based on his status in practice this week. Although Justin Fields (hand) started against Cleveland, Nagy said Monday that the Bears "are working through" who will start at quarterback in Week 4, Kimberley A. Martin of ESPN reports.

Dalton (knee) could miss an additional game or two beyond Week 4, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

Dalton has already been ruled out for Week 3, but the Bears haven't put him on injured reserve, with Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reporting Saturday that there's at least some chance for the veteran QB to avoid multiple absences. It now appears that's the less likely outcome, even if IR isn't on the table at the moment. With Dalton recovering from a bone bruise in his left knee, Justin Fields will make his first NFL start Sunday against Cleveland.

Dalton (knee) -- who has been ruled out for Sunday's game in Cleveland -- is not expected to miss significant additional time and could return as soon as Week 4 against the Lions, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reports.

Justin Fields took over after Dalton got hurt in Week 2 against the Bengals, but the rookie first-round pick struggled to move the offense. While Fields will have the opportunity to make his first career start against the Browns, his time as the starter will likely be short-lived; Chicago hasn't given any indication that Dalton's spot atop the quarterback depth chart is in jeopardy at this point.

The Bears have ruled out Dalton for Sunday's game at Cleveland, Dan Graziano of ESPN.com reports.

In the aftermath of the Bears' Week 2 win against the Bengals, Dalton was diagnosed with a bone bruise, which will result in at least one game missed. Coach Matt Nagy has reiterated all along that Dalton will start once he's healthy enough to do so, with his next chance coming Sunday, Oct. 3 versus the Lions. With Dalton sidelined this weekend, though, rookie Justin Fields will get his first career start, while Nick Foles serves as the backup QB.

With Dalton dealing with a knee issue, coach Matt Nagy announced Wednesday that Justin Fieldswill start Sunday's game against the Browns.

Per Jeff Dickerson of ESPN.com, Nick Foles is in line to serve as the Bears' No. 2 quarterback Sunday, while coach Matt Nagy reiterated that Dalton -- who is on track to be officially ruled out by the team as the week progresses -- is viewed as Chicago's starting QB, when healthy. For now, the veteran signal-caller should be viewed as week-to-week.

Dalton (knee) is considered week-to-week and appears unlikely to start Sunday's game against the Browns, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Though the Bears haven't officially ruled Dalton out for Week 3 and head coach Matt Nagy said Monday that the veteran would remain the team's top quarterback when healthy, rookie first-round pick Justin Fields looks to be trending toward the starting nod Sunday. An MRI has cleared Dalton of any structural damage to the left knee he injured in the Week 2 win over the Bengals, but he's still tending to a painful bone bruise that could make a full recovery difficult in a seven-day window. Given that Dalton joined the Bears on a one-year deal this offseason with the plan of having him serve as a bridge option to Fields, it's possible that Dalton loses hold of the starting job for good if the youngster acquits himself well against a tough Cleveland squad.

Dalton (knee) has undergone an MRI which confirmed the nature of his injury to be a bone bruise, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

The Bears have already declared that Dalton will remain the starter if healthy, but even though the nature of the veteran signal-caller's injury has now been revealed, his recovery timetable remains undisclosed. If Dalton is cleared to suit up Week 3 without missing any time, he will lead Chicago's offense in Cleveland on Sept. 26. On the other hand, if Dalton needs time on the sideline to get healthy, Justin Fields will stand to make his first NFL start while Nick Foles handles backup duties.

Dalton (knee) will start versus the Browns in Week 3 if healthy enough to suit up, Adam Hoge of NBC Sports Chicago reports.

Dalton will remain Chicago's starter if healthy, but the Bears are still waiting for the results of further tests on the veteran quarterback's knee. Initial results were at least encouraging to rule out such severe injuries as an ACL tear or MCL damage, and as things currently stand it appears that Dalton is dealing with a bone bruise. Rookie first-round pick Justin Fields played the entire second half of Sunday's 20-17 over the Bengals in relief of Dalton, but he struggled and only completed six of 13 passes for 60 yards, including an interception that nearly allowed Cincinnati to make a comeback.

Dalton (knee) did not suffer a torn ACL or MCL according to initial medical examinations, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Dalton was forced out of Sunday's 20-17 win over the Bengals in the second quarter after coming up lame during a 14-yard scramble, though he did briefly return for the next drive before heading to the locker room. Chicago's initial diagnosis for Dalton's injury is a bone bruise, which could force him to miss some time depending on severity, but it's certainly good news that the veteran has avoided a season-ending knee issue such as an ACL tear. Further tests will reveal a recovery timetable for Dalton. Rookie first-round pick Justin Fields would stand to handle duties under center if the 33-year-old veteran can't suit up for next weekend's road matchup in Cleveland.

Coach Matt Nagy said Sunday that the Bears will have a better sense of Dalton's knee injury once the quarterback undergoes additional tests, Adam Hoge of NBC Sports Chicago reports.

When asked if Dalton suffered an ACL injury, Nagy said, "I'm pretty sure that we can rule that out." As evidence, Nagy told Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune that Dalton was the emergency option at QB in the second half of Sunday's 20-17 win. Dalton didn't end up returning to the contest, finishing Week 2 with 56 yards and one touchdown on 9-for-11 passing to go with two carries for 25 yards. Meanwhile, rookie Justin Fields didn't do much with an expanded role, completing six of 13 passes for 60 yards and an interception and taking 10 carries for 31 yards. Considering Nagy's comments, the Bears will have a better idea of their situation under center in the next 24-48 hours.

Dalton (knee) has been downgraded to doubtful to return to Sunday's game against the Bengals, Doug Kyed of Pro Football Focus reports.

Dalton was originally considered questionable to return, but it now appears his day has come to an early end. Justin Fields will handle the duties under center the rest of the day barring an unexpected change in Dalton's status.

Dalton (knee) is questionable to return to Sunday's contest against the Bengals, Jason Lieser of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.

Dalton came up lame the end of a 14-yard scramble early in the second quarter and left the game for the rest of that possession. He returned on the next drive but went to the locker room thereafter, when he was diagnosed with a knee injury. If he's unable to return, Dalton will finish Week 2 having completed nine of 10 passes for 56 yards and one TD to go with two carries for 25 yards. Justin Fields took over under center for Dalton.

Dalton completed 27 of 38 pass attempts for 206 yards, no touchdowns, an interception and a fumble lost in Sunday's 34-14 loss to the Rams.

Dalton struggled mightily against the Rams defense, averaging a paltry 5.4 yards per attempt. It was an incredibly tough matchup, so all the blame can't be placed on the veteran quarterback. Justin Fields did enter the game a few times (similar to how Trey Lance did for San Francisco in Week 1), and he managed to score the only touchdown a Chicago quarterback would be credited with. Perhaps the Bears' offense would be more dynamic with the rookie under center, but the team may opt to give Dalton another shot against the Bengals next Sunday, who are not as imposing defensively as the Rams were.

Coach Matt Nagy said Dalton will start against the Rams in Week 1, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

Nagy said the Bears need to see Dalton in the regular season, which may or may not be his reason for standing by journeyman veteran over Justin Fields, the 11th overall pick from the 2021 draft. The Bears offensive line is questionable and might be uniquely vulnerable to Week 1 opponent Aaron Donald, so it wouldn't be shocking if the Bears wanted to keep Fields out of those treacherous waters. With that said, even if the Bears are in part trying to protect Fields, Dalton could earn a longer leash if he plays competently in that tough matchup. As much as Fields is the inevitable future for the Bears, it seems Nagy is committed to giving Dalton at least one chance to prove himself as the team's starting quarterback of the present.

Dalton completed 11 of his 17 pass attempts for 146 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Saturday's preseason game against Buffalo.

Dalton played the entire first half, leading six offensive drives. Half of those possessions ended after three plays, with an interception ending an additional drive. Dalton did connect with Rodney Adams for a 73-yard touchdown midway through the second quarter, making up the majority of his production on the day. The Bears seem willing to stick with Dalton as their starting quarterback to begin the season, but he's unlikely to hold onto the role for the entire campaign.

Coach Matt Nagy said Dalton will play at least a quarter and a half in Saturday's preseason game against Buffalo, Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reports.

Justin Fields (groin) is expected to play, but Dalton nonetheless figures to play most or all of the first half, presumably gearing up for the Week 1 start. While the rookie figures to take over at some point, Nagy still seems to be prepping 33-year-old Dalton for September.

Dalton completed two of four passes for 18 yards in Saturday's preseason game against Miami.

Dalton played two drives, both three-and-outs. Rookie QB Justin Fields then went three-and-out on his first three series, before putting up 17 points (with an eight-yard rushing TD and 30-yard passing TD) over his final four drives. Coach Matt Nagy has been clear about viewing Dalton as his Week 1 starter, but Fields hasn't wasted any time building his case to take over sooner than later. Both quarterbacks figure to take snaps in Chicago's second preseason game Aug. 21 against the Bills.

Dalton will start Saturday's preseason opener against Miami but may be removed after one drive, Adam Jahns of The Athletic reports.

It sounds like Dalton will play one or two drives, depending on what happens with the first. Meanwhile, rookie Justin Fields is scheduled for far more playing time, likely replacing Dalton in the first/second quarter and then playing into the second half. Matt Nagy has made multiple comments about Dalton being his starting quarterback, but an impressive August from Fields could have the Bears coach singing a different tune come September.

Although the Bears have affirmed Dalton as the Week 1 starter, coach Matt Nagy dodged a question as to whether Justin Fields can impress enough in camp to win the job Alyssa Barbieri of USA Today reports.

As of now, there's no reason to expect the Bears to change their stance on Dalton beginning the year under center, but after Nagy's lack of immediate support for the team's current plan, there may be an element of doubt. It's possible that performances in preseason games could change who's named the Week 1 quarterback, but it's nothing more than speculation as training camp is set to open.

Dalton may open the year as the Bears No. 1 quarterback before eventually turning the job over the Justin Fields Jeff Dickerson of ESPN.com reports.

Although Dalton was signed in free agency to start under center, once the team spent significant draft capital to move up to the 11th pick, it's likely the Bears will turn to Fields as soon as they feel he's ready to lead the offense. Even before the draft, Dalton was unlikely to be valued inside the top-20 quarterbacks in fantasy drafts, and now it appears his value is little more than early-season depth in leagues that start two quarterbacks.

General manager Ryan Pace confirmed Friday that he views Dalton as the Bears' starting quarterback, Adam Hoge of NBC Sports Chicago reports.

The Bears had already listed Dalton as the "QB1" heading into OTAs, but to see Pace so openly talk of him as the starter would seem to confirm that a competition with Nick Foles isn't being seriously considered. Per Hoge, the general manger discussed Dalton's style of play -- specifically his affinity for play-action, RPOs and ability to drop back -- as being a good fit for coach Matt Nagy's offense. Dalton should certainly offer Chicago more consistency under center than Mitchell Trubisky did in recent years, but it's also fair to question the fantasy ceiling of a 33-year-old quarterback who only managed two 4,000-yard passing seasons in nine years as a starter.

Dalton is expected to be the Bears' starting quarterback in 2021.

Dalton was expected to compete with Nick Foles for the starting job in 2021 after Mitchell Trubisky left for Buffalo in free agency. However, the Bears' social media account indicated Wednesday that Dalton is already considered "QB1" for next season. Perhaps this is a sign that the team will move on from Foles as well. The 33-year-old Dalton was serviceable in place of Dak Prescott (ankle) last season, completing 65 percent of his passes for 2,170 yards (6.5 YPA), 14 touchdowns and eight interceptions. With Allen Robinson sticking around on the franchise tag, Dalton will have at least one elite pass-catcher at his disposal.

The Bears and Dalton agreed to a one-year, $10 million contract Tuesday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

With Chicago poised to move on from 2017 second overall pick Mitchell Trubisky, the team has brought Dalton into its quarterback room, seemingly to compete with Nick Foles for the starting gig. Dalton filled in for Dak Prescott last season following his season-ending ankle injury, completing 65 percent of his passes for 2,170 yards, 14 touchdowns and eight interceptions in 11 contests. There are moving parts in the Bears offense, but Dalton at least will have the franchise-tagged Allen Robinson at his disposal in the passing game.

Dalton completed 29 of 47 pass attempts for 243 yards and one interception while adding 48 yards on seven carries during Sunday's 23-19 loss to the Giants.

Dalton, who struggled mightily in the early going, finished averaging just 5.2 yards per attempt while completing 62 percent of his passes. He steadied the ship and led his team into the red zone with a chance to win late, only to throw an interception in the end zone in the face of relentless pressure. Dalton came into this one with an impressive 9:2 TD:INT over the last four games, but he couldn't get the job done in this one with a potential playoff spot on the line. The veteran showed he can still perform at times this season and will now enter free agency perhaps in hopes of earning another chance to start.

Dalton completed 22 of 30 passes for 377 yards and three touchdowns with one interception in Sunday's 37-17 win over the Eagles.

He also gained 15 rushing yards on five carries. In a battle between two of the worst secondaries in the league, Dalton and Jalen Hurts combined for 719 passing yards, but it was the veteran who came out on top with two TD strikes to Michael Gallup and one to Amari Cooper -- both of whom piled up 121 receiving yards on the afternoon. Dalton has tossed multiple touchdowns in four straight games, posting a 9:2 TD:INT over that stretch, while his performance Sunday marked his first 300-yard effort as a Cowboy. He'll look to keep that momentum going in Week 17's clash with the Giants, as both teams remain alive in the hunt for the NFC East title.

Dalton completed 19 of 33 pass attempts for 209 yards and two touchdowns during Sunday's 41-33 win over the 49ers.

Dalton completed just 57 percent of his passes as he struggled to connect with some of his top targets. He did avoid turning the ball over for the second straight game, however, while completing touchdown passes to Michael Gallup and Dalton Schultz. Dalton now has a 10:3 TD:INT over the last five games and has led the Cowboys to three wins in that stretch to climb back into the NFC East playoff picture. He'll look to build on his solid recent play next Sunday against the Eagles.

Dalton completed 16 of 23 pass attempts for 185 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions in Week 14 against the Bengals.

Dalton returned to Cincinnati to face his former team and took advantage of a mistake-prone performance by the Bengals. He tallied multiple touchdowns for the third time in his last four starts, connecting with Amari Cooper and Tony Pollard for 11 and seven-yard touchdown tosses respectively. After the Cowboys jumped out to a multiple score lead as early as the second quarter, Dalton was asked to take to the air only 23 times, but had 25 team rushing attempts. Dalton will likely need to take to the air more if Dallas hopes to earn a win in Week 15 against San Francisco.

Dalton completed 31 of 48 passes for 285 yards with two touchdowns and one interception in the Cowboys' 34-17 loss to the Ravens on Tuesday night. He also gained two yards on his one rush.

The veteran quarterback has looked increasingly comfortable helming the Cowboys offense as the season has unfolded, with Tuesday night's effort qualifying as one of Dalton's most productive yet this season. The 33-year-old threw a pair of impressive touchdown passes to Michael Gallup and Amari Cooper in the second and fourth quarter, respectively, giving him multiple scoring tosses in two of his last three games. Dalton's yardage tally was also a season high, with his one blemish coming in the second quarter on an interception by Ravens star rookie Patrick Queen on a pass intended for Amari Cooper that was immediately followed by a 38-yard touchdown reception by Myles Boykin that gave Baltimore a lead it wouldn't relinquish. Dalton's play of late does offer some optimism for fantasy managers as playoffs begin, and those holding the former Bengal on their rosters could benefit from what should be an extra level of motivation for the Dallas signal-caller in a Week 14 matchup that will mark his return to Cincin

Dalton completed 25 of 35 passes for 215 yards and a touchdown with an interception in Thursday's 41-16 loss to Washington. He also gained 17 rushing yards on three carries.

The veteran QB hit Amari Cooper for a 54-yard touchdown early in the second quarter to give Dallas a 10-7 lead, but it proved to be the team's last lead of the afternoon as Washington's pass rush and ground attack took control. Dalton's INT was actually a pick-six, as Montez Sweat leaped to bring down an attempted screen pass and took it 15 yards for a score, but the game was already well out of hand at that point. The Cowboys remain in the hunt in the feeble NFC East despite the loss, but Dalton will need to step up his game in Week 13 if they're going to pull an upset in Baltimore.

Dalton completed 22 of 32 passes for 203 yards and three touchdowns with an interception in Sunday's 31-28 win over the Vikings.

All three TD passes went for six yards or less, as the Dallas offense rode Ezekiel Elliott and the running game between the 20s before Dalton finished the job in the red zone. It was an impressive return to action for the veteran QB, who'd missed the last two games due to a concussion and a COVID-19 diagnosis, and Dalton will get a chance for some revenge against the defense that knocked him out of action in Week 7 when Dallas faces Washington on Thanksgiving in an unlikely battle for the NFC East lead.

Dalton is expected to start Sunday's game against the Vikings after being activated from the reserve/COVID-19 earlier this week, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy never officially named a Week 11 starter, but Dalton should take back the reins of the Dallas offense from Garrett Gilbert now that he's made a full recovery from the coronavirus in addition to clearing the NFL's concussion protocol. The veteran signal-caller was a full participant in practice throughout the week, clearing up any concern about his readiness for game action. While Dalton will have his full complement of skill-position players available Sunday, he'll have to continuing making do with a patchwork offensive line that has three starters on injured reserve (left tackles Tyron Smith, right tackle La'el Collins and center Tyler Biadasz).

The Cowboys activated Dalton (concussion/illness) from the reserve/COVID-19 list Wednesday.

A report from the Cowboys' official site Monday relayed Dalton cleared the concussion protocol and the necessary testing to come off the COVID-19 list, but the second one was a premature assessment. Now officially cleared from the COVID-19 list, he can gear up for Sunday's visit to Minnesota, where he'll likely retake the reins of the offense. Expect the Cowboys to confirm as much in the near future.

Updating a previous report, Dalton (concussion) wasn't activated from the reserve/COVID-19 list Tuesday, but the quarterback remains on track to return to action in the Cowboys' Week 11 game at Minnesota, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

Dalton was ruled out ahead of the Cowboys' Week 9 loss to the Eagles while recovering from a concussion before he was moved to the reserve/COVID-19 list on Nov. 3 after contracting the coronavirus. The quarterback has since cleared the NFL's five-step concussion protocol, and he's believed to be fully recovered from COVID-19 after being asymptomatic following his positive test. That said, Dalton's continued presence on the list suggests he still has to pass a few more phases of the NFLs COVID-19 protocol, though it shouldn't prevent him from suiting up Sunday. Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy has yet to name a Week 11 starter, but Dalton is expected to get the nod over Garrett Gilbert if he gains clearance to practice within the next few days.

Dalton (concussion/illness) has cleared the concussion protocol, and the Cowboys activated him from the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday, Nick Eatman of the team's official site reports.

Dalton picked up a concussion Oct. 25 when he took a massive hit while sliding at Washington. A little more than a week later, he was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list on the Tuesday before a Sunday, Nov. 8 matchup with the Steelers. The result was back-to-back DNPs before the Cowboys' Week 10 bye, a span in which Ben DiNucci and then Garrett Gilbert acted as the team's starting QB. On Monday, coach Mike McCarthy said, "He was cleared to participate in practice. ... We had a mock game type of practice. And he was a full participant." While McCarthy wouldn't name a starter, Cowboys COO Stephen Jones previously noted Dalton will be under center when he's healthy. It only seems a matter of time before Jones, McCarthy or owner/GM Jerry Jones makes it official.

Dalton (concussion/illness) practiced fully Monday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

With that, the QB is on track to come off the reserve/COVID-19 list in advance of Sunday's game against the Vikings. With regard to Dalton starting that game, coach Mike McCarthy noted Monday that Dalton "looked good today. We'll take it one day at a time," Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports. Dalton last suited up in Week 7.

Coach Mike McCarthy isn't optimistic that Dalton (concussion/illness) will be cleared for action by the end of this week, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

That said, the Cowboys are on bye in Week 10, so the QB will look to gain medical clearance next week as the team's preparations for a Nov. 22 matchup against the Vikings begin. Once he's back on the field, Dalton will be reinstated as the team's starting QB.

Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones said Monday that Dalton (concussion) will start under center when cleared to return, Clarence E. Hill Jr. of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.

Dalton has missed back-to-back contests, sitting out Week 8 due to a concussion and then landing on the reserve/COVID-19 list Week 9. In relief action, Garrett Gilbert provided Dallas' offense with a legitimate spark during Sunday's narrow 24-19 loss to the Steelers, nearly paving the way for an upset win while racking up 243 yards with a touchdown and one interception. In comparison, Dalton only has a 1:3 TD:INT ratio on the year, but it doesn't appear that the Cowboys are willing to entertain a quarterback competition. Dalton will need to gain clearance from both the five-step concussion protocol and the COVID-19 list before retaking the field, but he'll get the benefit of extra time during a Week 10 bye while working to make his return Nov. 22 in Minnesota.

The Cowboys placed Dalton (concussion) on the reserve/COVID-19 list Tuesday, meaning he'll miss Sunday's game versus the Steelers, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.

Regardless of Dalton's progress through the NFL's five-step concussion protocol, he won't be able to clear the league's COVID-19 protocols by Sunday. This means Ben DiNucci will start a second straight game under center while Garrett Gilbert serves as the backup quarterback. The Cowboys have a Week 10 bye, so Dalton will aim to return Week 11 against the Vikings.

Dalton hasn't cleared all the steps of the concussion protocol, but there's hope the quarterback will return Sunday against the Steelers, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

After Sunday's loss at Philadelphia, McCarthy told Jon Machota of The Athletic that Dalton was improving, indicating some measure of progress through the protocol. There's an expectation that Dalton completes them in advance of Sunday's game, but recoveries from head injuries are notoriously difficult to predict. He also didn't practice last week prior to being inactive this past weekend, so getting back on the field Wednesday and beyond will give a sense of whether the veteran QB may retake the reins of the Cowboys offense Week 9.

Coach Mike McCarthy said after Sunday's loss to the Cowboys that Dalton (concussion) is doing significantly better and is expected to start next Sunday against the Steelers, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

Dalton will need to clear the concussion protocol, but a return to practice this week would go a long way toward verifying his status for Week 9. Rookie Ben DiNucci looked overmatched as the fill-in starter under center, so Dalton's return would be a major boon to all of Dallas' skill position players, even with a tough matchup against the undefeated Steelers on tap.

The Cowboys have officially ruled out Dalton (concussion) ahead of Sunday's game against the Eagles, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

No surprise here, as Dalton was originally deemed doubtful for the contest and held out of practice all week. As a result, rookie seventh-round pick, Ben DiNucci, is expected to make his first career NFL start. The veteran quarterback will continue to focus on his recovery and look to make his way out of concussion protocol for the Cowboy's Week 9 contest against the Steelers.

Dalton (concussion) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Eagles, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

Dalton was held out of practice all week, setting the table for seventh-round rookie Ben DiNucci to make his first NFL start. Anyone counting on DiNucci for a fantasy lineup will want to keep tabs on the situation, as the decision to list Dalton as 'doubtful' rather than 'out' might be taken as a hint that he has some tiny chance to play. The Cowboys and Eagles are playing in the Sunday night game, with the opening kickoff scheduled for 8:20 p.m. ET.

Coach Mike McCarthy said Dalton (concussion) needs to practice Saturday to have a chance of playing against the Eagles on Sunday, and "as of now, he's not scheduled to practice, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

The veteran quarterback remains in the concussion protocol and is an unlikely bet to be available for the Week 8 divisional matchup. Assuming Dalton's outlook remains unchanged, rookie seventh-rounder Ben DiNucci is expected to receive the first start of his career for the Cowboys.

Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy said that Dalton (concussion) won't participate in Thursday's practice, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

Though Dalton won't be on the practice field for a second straight day, the veteran signal-caller has seemingly progressed on some level in his recovery from the concussion he sustained in the Week 7 loss to Washington. As Gehlken notes, Dalton participated in the team's quarterback meeting Thursday, which suggests the Cowboys have some hope he might be available for Sunday's game in Philadelphia. For now, rookie Ben DiNucci looks like the probable starter for Week 8, as he'll continue to see all the first-team reps for the second day in a row.

Dalton (concussion) is not practicing Wednesday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Dalton will need to fully clear the league's five-step concussion protocol before being eligible to retake the field, and missing his first practice of the week may not be a good sign for his Week 8 availability. Ben DiNucci appears to be in line to start Sunday night's divisional contest against the Eagles if Dalton can't go, though Garrett Gilbert could also be in the mix.

Dalton is in the concussion protocol Monday and could be in danger of missing Week 8, Adam Schefter of ESPN report.

Dalton suffered the first concussion of his NFL career due to a brutal hit from Washington linebacker Jon Bostic in the third quarter Week 7. Ben DiNucci struggled to move the offense in replacement of Dalton, ultimately completing two of three pass attempts for 39 yards while taking three sacks. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports that the Cowboys aren't expected to sign another quarterback to the roster, so if Dalton is unable to fully clear the concussion protocol in time, it could come down to DiNucci or Garrett Gilbert to start against Philadelphia's stout defensive front.

Dalton won't return to Sunday's contest in Washington due to a concussion, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

As he slid to the ground at the end of a run in the third quarter, Dalton received a nasty hit from Washington linebacker Jon Bostic, getting his helmet knocked off on the play. Prior to entering the concussion protocol, Dalton completed nine of 19 passes for 75 yards and one interception, while turning three rushes into 16 yards. Ben DiNucci replaced Dalton at quarterback.

Dalton (undisclosed) left the field in the third quarter of Sunday's contest at Washington after a late hit from linebacker Jon Bostic, The Dallas Morning News reports.

Dalton's helmet was knocked off at the end of his slide, resulting in his departure and Bostic's ejection. If Dalton is unable to return, he'll finish the game 9-for-19 for 75 yards and one interception. Ben DiNucci, the only other QB active for the Cowboys, took over for Dalton under center.

Dalton completed 34 of 54 passes for 266 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions in the Cowboys' 38-10 loss to the Cardinals on Monday night. He also gained four yards on two rushes

Dalton's serviceable final line belies the fits and starts that defined the Cowboys offense the majority of the night, although not all the blame can fairly be laid at the feet of the veteran quarterback. Ezekiel Elliott's two fumbles certainly didn't help the cause, but Dalton also lacked arm strength and accuracy on a fair amount of throws throughout the contest. He also took three sacks and got hit eight times overall, with the significant difference between his mobility and that of Dak Prescott's visibly evident on many plays. Even the 18-play, 75-yard drive that Dalton was able to spearhead in the fourth quarter was nowhere near as impressive as those figures might imply, although he did at least manage to cap it with his only touchdown pass of the night, which went to Amari Cooper. Dalton will hope to work out the kinks during another full week of practice reps ahead of a Week 7 road divisional battle versus the Washington Football Team.

Dalton completed nine of 11 passes for 111 yards in relief of Dak Prescott (ankle) during Sunday's 37-34 win over the Giants.

Entering the game after Prescott suffered a likely season-ending ankle injury, Dalton had some hiccups, including a fourth-quarter fumble on an exchange with rookie center Tyler Biadasz that resulted in a go-ahead TD by the Giants five plays later, but the veteran quarterback came through when it mattered and led the Cowboys to two field goals inside the final two minutes to secure the victory. Coach Mike McCarthy confirmed after the game that Dalton would be the team's No. 1 QB moving forward, per Jon Machota of The Athletic, and the long-time Bengal will make his first start for Dallas in Week 6 at home against Arizona.

Dalton subbed in for Dak Prescott and threw an incomplete pass in Sunday's comeback win over the Falcons.

Prescott came out after a big hit from Deion Jones late in the third quarter, leaving Dalton to helm the offense with the ball on the one-yard line. Offensive coordinator Kellen Moore gave the veteran QB a chance to make an impact in the red zone, but with everyone covered Dalton did the smart thing and threw the ball away. Prescott then checked back into the game and scored his second of three rushing TDs on the day. As long as the Cowboys' No. 1 quarterback stays healthy, Dalton's main contributions will come in the film room.

Dalton signed a one-year, $3 million contract with the Cowboys on Saturday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

The 32-year-old was cut by the Bengals earlier in the week, and it only took a couple days for him to latch on with a new club, though he's clearly not signing as a starter. There was significant speculation of Dalton landing with a team lacking a proven quarterback, but the TCU product will return to Texas to serve as the backup for Dak Prescott.

The Bengals are releasing Dalton on Thursday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Unable to find a trade, the Bengals finally relented and now will allow Dalton to become an unrestricted free agent. The move frees up $17.7 million in cap space for Cincinnati, while the 32-year-old quarterback figures to have limited options at this juncture of the offseason.

With the selection of Joe Burrow with the first overall pick official, Dalton's future with the team remains uncertain, though it's highly probable that Burrow will take over as the starter, Ben Baby of ESPN.com reports.

Something has to give with the Bengals still, with the team either having to move Dalton or another high-salaried veteran, as Dalton's $17.7 million salary will put the Bengals over the salary cap.

The Bengals may decide to keep Dalton, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Team and player both seem to prefer a trade, but it's difficult to find a partner in a market where free agent quarterbacks Jameis Winston and Cam Newton are struggling to drum up interest. Ultimately, it would make sense for the Bengals to cut Dalton if they do in fact use the No. 1 overall pick on Joe Burrow, as the 32-year-old quarterback doesn't have any guarantees on his $17.7 million compensation for 2020. It would be an unprecedented sum to pay for a backup, though it's possible Dalton would consider a pay cut and then hit the open market next offseason. It seems like all options are still in play here.

The Bears are trying to trade for Dalton or Nick Foles, Ed Werder of ESPN reports.

It's no secret the Bengals want to trade Dalton before they use the No. 1 overall pick on Joe Burrow. The 32-year-old quarterback is expected to have some say in his next NFL destination, as the Bengals hope to remain on good terms with their longtime starter. It's hard to imagine Dalton having any complaints about Chicago, where he'd be matched with a good defense and likely would have the upper hand on Mitchell Trubisky in a job battle.

Dalton will have a say in trade negotiations this offseason, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Expected to draft Joe Burrow at No. 1 overall, the Bengals will first explore options for trading Dalton, who has started 133 regular-season games and four playoff contests through nine seasons. The Bengals intend to find a trade that the 32-year-old approves of, hoping for a cordial exit for their longtime starting quarterback. Should nothing materialize, the Bengals can release Dalton without incurring any dead money, freeing up $17.7 million in 2020 cap space in the process, per overthecap.com. The veteran QB would then become an unrestricted free agent.