The Carolina Panthers continue to search for answers at quarterback.
They thought Cam Newton would give the team a much-needed boost.
But the former league MVP isn’t enough to turn their fortunes around.
He got benched for P.J. Walker, but the backup isn’t much of an improvement either.
The former Temple standout had an interception in each of his last three games, two of which were losses.
Then there’s Sam Darnold, who they brought into the fold before the season.
Panthers designated QB Sam Darnold to return from IR.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 15, 2021
Newton’s return might signify that Darnold’s stint in Carolina is over.
However, the Panthers are not giving up on him because they picked up his fifth-year option earlier this year.
That gives him $18.8 million for the 2022 season.
It’s chump change compared to what the top-earning quarterbacks will receive.
Yet having no concrete plans at quarterback left the franchise with no choice but to bring him back.
In Darnold They Trust
Despite his struggles, the Panthers would like to see if Darnold is still the rightful quarterback.
Woke up hoping for news of a firing.
Instead, got news that Sam Darnold may suit up again. pic.twitter.com/V1OQgPmmSc
— Jeremy Igo (@CarolinaHuddle) December 13, 2021
For him to perform well, Carolina must have solid pieces around him.
That’s why they had much success earlier in the season when Christian McCaffrey didn’t suffer another string of injuries.
Darnold threw for three touchdowns and only one interception during their first three games, which were all victories.
But he did struggle when the versatile running back started to falter.
It’s hard to determine if McCaffrey will play an entire season ever again.
However, the Panthers are banking on the possibility of pairing him again with Darnold.
"The Sam Darnold situation in Carolina is very interesting.. I don't think he'll play this week but could be ready to go next week" ~@RapSheet#PatMcAfeeShowLIVE #KeepPounding pic.twitter.com/lDjLfuRSPa
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) December 15, 2021
He may not be the best quarterback out there, but they clicked when they were both in peak form.
Likewise, they are also banking on the possibility that Darnold will thrive under a new offensive coordinator.
The one who will replace Joe Brady might unlock more schemes that will play to Darnold’s strengths.
Besides, Darnold did manifest some flashes of brilliance, and they want to unearth his talent even more.
But ultimately, the Panthers picked up his option because they had no other choice before the start of the season.
Darnold Is Still Their Best Option
Yes, Darnold made a ton of questionable plays that brought them losses.
But he’s still their quarterback during four of their five wins.
Their other victory without him came when the Arizona Cardinals didn’t have Kyler Murray.
He also had 300-yard passing games in three of their first four games in the 2021 NFL season.
While he’s part of the blame for their failures, Darnold could thrive if other players stepped up as well.
What physical traits did Matt Rhule see in Sam Darnold that made him trade for him despite his early woes in New York? pic.twitter.com/uesq4TUcwd
— Panthers Culture 💙⚫️⚪️ (@PanthersCulture) December 16, 2021
Beyond this year, the Panthers’ options for an upgrade are bleak.
They can try and draft a quarterback, but that’s not guaranteed success.
It’s also impossible for them to land marquee free agents that might be on the move.
Finally, trading valuable pieces for a quarterback will disrupt whatever good they’ve built.
The #Panthers are paying Teddy Bridgewater, Sam Darnold AND Cam Newton. That is just absurd
— G.T Bobby Thompson (@BThomps81) December 12, 2021
That said, hanging on to Darnold for at least one year could pay off for both parties.
The Panthers get insurance on their quarterback depth chart while Darnold gets another chance to audition for a bigger contract.
He should make better throws once he returns because his shoulder isn’t hurting anymore.
NEXT: Cam Newton Was Never Going To Save The Panthers