Ever since entering the NFL in 2018, many have considered Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold to be a relative disappointment.
He was a star signal-caller at the University of Southern California, and despite being made the third pick in the 2018 NFL Draft by the New York Jets, he just hasn’t panned out.
After three rough years with the Jets, he made his way to Carolina last season, only to lose his starting job to Baker Mayfield when this year started.
But on Sunday, he got his first start of 2022 and did very well, completing 11 of 19 passes and throwing a touchdown pass to lead the Panthers to a 23-10 win over Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos.
It was vindication for a man who suffered a severely sprained ankle during the preseason shortly after being benched in favor of Mayfield.
These two fans not only showed him some love, but they went a little over the top with it.
Reacting To The Win
Sam Darnold for MVP https://t.co/UnkQjdj8LR
— RAY REDDINGTON (@ItzNDaGENES) November 28, 2022
Sam Darnold is an MVP front runner
— X Clown ‘03 (@riderpride89) November 28, 2022
This man swore that the Panthers should’ve stuck with Darnold all along instead of trading for Mayfield.
Sam is still young.. I have full faith that he can show way more. The caliber of throws he can make can't be thrown away. People are so scared of going against the grain and give this kid props. The internet hates him. If we had of given him his opportunity behind this line man..
— Daniel Castro (@DanielCastrp1) November 28, 2022
This fan had a very simple message.
Sam Darnold > Russell Wilson pic.twitter.com/clorG1e20R
— creed (4-8) (@hornints) November 28, 2022
Despite the presence of Wilson, the Broncos have struggled inexplicably this season, especially on the offensive side of the ball.
He went 19 of 35 for just 142 yards, and it’s no coincidence that Denver has scored fewer touchdowns than any other team.
The Panthers are in full-bore rebuild mode, and if Darnold continues to play well for the rest of the season, perhaps he could remain as their starter next season.
At just age 25, perhaps he can experience a resurgence like that of the New York Giants’ Daniel Jones if Carolina surrounds him with the right pieces.
NEXT: Is Baker Mayfield The Worst QB In The NFL?