It’s no secret that the Carolina Panthers are looking for a new quarterback.
They made a bid for Deshaun Watson but lost to the Cleveland Browns.
While they also have pressing needs on their pass rush and their offensive line, the Panthers will likely use the sixth pick of the 2022 NFL Draft for a quarterback.
That’s why they’ve been attending the Pro Days of Kenny Pickett, Malik Willis, Matt Corral, and Desmond Ridder.
Panthers General Manager Scott Fitterer will look at each prospect closely and will eventually choose their top bet.
However, always take his thoughts with a grain of salt because he easily shifted his view on Sam Darnold.
"The whole key is bringing Sam [Darnold] along,'' Panthers GM Scott Fitterer said. "He's in the lead for that job.'' After the season Fitterer said the QB job was "open.''
— David Newton (@DNewtonespn) March 25, 2022
ESPN NFL Nation reporter for the Panthers David Newton tweeted, “‘The whole key is bringing Sam [Darnold] along,’ Panthers GM Scott Fitterer said. ‘He’s in the lead for that job.’ After the season Fitterer said the QB job was ‘open.'”
Before the 2021 season, the Panthers had high hopes for Darnold, claiming that he will thrive in a new environment.
It’s that belief that led Carolina to trade their 2021 sixth-round pick, 2022 second-rounder, and 2022 fourth-rounder to the New York Jets for the USC product.
Darnold had a good start, helping the Panthers to a 3-0 record.
McCaffrey’s Injury Led To Darnold’s Fall
Unfortunately, Darnold hasn’t performed well without versatile running back Christian McCaffrey.
The offense didn’t look as good without their ace from the backfield.
As a result, Darnold won just one additional game the rest of the way.
He won only four of 11 games started, finishing with 2,527 yards, nine touchdowns, and 13 interceptions.
After one season, the Panthers don’t view Darnold as a franchise play-caller anymore.
Worst yet, the quarterback might not have a chance to redeem himself based on the team’s Pro Day-hopping.
NEXT: Panthers Leadership Continues To Scout All The Top QB Prospects