The Carolina Panthers are not getting the best results from Sam Darnold.
Head coach Matt Rhule decided to take a chance on the former No. 3 overall pick and it appears Adam Gase was not the sole reason for the quarterback’s struggles.
Darnold is now dealing with a sore shoulder and that potentially leaves P.J. Walker to get the start.
The team also added a reliable veteran to the mix to add to the depth on the roster.
The #Panthers are expected to sign QB Matt Barkley, as @josephperson said. With Sam Darnold dealing with a shoulder injury, Barkley is headed to Carolina.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) November 9, 2021
Matt Barkley is reportedly being signed off the Tennessee Titans practice squad to potentially compete for some playing time in Carolina.
Seeking An Answer At QB
Darnold imploded in Week 9 against the New England Patriots.
He finished the game with three interceptions and seemed to be whipping the ball around aimlessly.
The 24-6 loss only drops the Panthers to 4-5 on the season and the rest of the players on the team have to be hoping for a quarterback change in order to chase a postseason berth.
Even if Darnold is healthy, that may leave Walker as the starter.
The #Patriots get the better of Sam Darnold once again pic.twitter.com/QL7OtU5PuE
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) November 7, 2021
Walker is known for his XFL success during the league’s brief return in 2020 and at this point he represents something different.
That is all Panthers fans are asking for.
Barkley, however, may be the safest option.
He has been in the league since 2013 and has settled into a permanent backup role all around the NFL.
Even putting him in for one game to see how he can do could be a wise strategy.
As long as he isn’t throwing interceptions all game, the Panthers will have a better chance to win than with Darnold.
It is sad to say that, but it appears the former top pick in New York is not going to salvage his career in Carolina.
NEXT: What Sam Darnold Proved To The Panthers In Week 9