The Carolina Panthers thought that Sam Darnold was the answer at quarterback.
That’s why the team traded three draft picks to the New York Jets to acquire him.
Before the 2021 season, the Panthers had already exercised their fifth-year option on Darnold, worth $18.858 million.
Initially, Darnold looked to be the right hire after he led Carolina to a 3-0 record.
Unfortunately, the team also quickly found out that he would only do well if everything around him went smoothly.
The Panthers won only two games after the hot start to end at 5-12.
His performance has Carolina pursuing a quarterback for the 2022 NFL Draft.
There are some exciting prospects like Matt Corral, Kenny Pickett, Desmond Ridder, and Malik Willis.
But the more the Panthers are leaning towards a quarterback, Darnold’s days with the team are numbered.
However, he is confident that he can continue his career elsewhere, as he said during his recent appearance on “Bussin’ With the Boys” hosted by Will Compton and Taylor Lewan.
Sam Darnold was asked how he would feel if the Panthers drafted a quarterback at 6. Here’s his response:
🎥: @BussinWTB pic.twitter.com/Qd8jJqsohe
— Panthers On Tap (@PanthersOnTap) April 6, 2022
Darnold’s Reaction To Carolina’s Draft Day Move
When asked about his feeling if the Panthers drafted a quarterback with the sixth overall pick in 2022, here’s what the former USC standout said:
“It truly is, and this is kind of where you’re not gonna believe what I say, but just bear with me. It truly is like, whatever happens, happens. Because at the end of the day, it’s not in my control, and I know that. And so, I have enough security in myself where I can be like I know I’m a good quarterback. I know I can be a good quarterback in this league, proved it, and I know there’s a team, if something happens, that would want me.”
The question is, will any team want him after his performance in 2021?
It would be difficult to see him starting again, especially with an intriguing 2023 quarterback draft class.
NEXT: Former NFL QB Cautions Panthers On Drafting Kenny Pickett