The Carolina Panthers have turned back to Sam Darnold as their starting quarterback. Darnold is set to start week 17 against the New Orleans Saints after spending time on the injured reserve.
The Panthers have played musical chairs at the quarterback position. Prior to being placed on injured reserve, Darnold was benched multiple times in favor of P.J. Walker. Then the Panthers signed Cam Newton who has been benched in favor of Walker and now Darnold.
The Sam Darnold experiment looked to be a success early this season when the Panthers started 3-0. Since that hot start, they are 5-10 on the season and head coach Matt Rhule isn’t looking like the genius he was getting credit for during the first 3 games.
Darnold’s stats have not been great but there is upside for the Panthers to play him. He is signed through next season so now would be a great time for the Panthers to give him a look. The Panthers won’t be competing for a Super Bowl this season but they can try to get some stability at the quarterback position.
What about Cam Newton
The Carolina Panther days for Cam Newton look to be coming to an end. Nevertheless, Newton gave that city and team his all one last time. His return brought energy back to the city that was nostalgic for Panther fans although short-lived.
Teammate Robby Anderson recently had a lot to say about Cam Newton.
Cam was emotional after being benched and realizing his time in Carolina may be coming to an end. He spoke about those emotions and just how much the city of Charlotte and that team means to him.
The Panther’s next game is Sunday in a divisional matchup against the New Orleans Saints, who are making a push towards the NFL playoffs.
