3 reasons the Carolina Panthers shouldn’t draft a QB at No. 8

Creating unnecessary pressure

The Carolina Panthers didn’t spend three draft picks on Sam Darnold to not give him a real shot of turning his career around. General manager Scott Fitterer sees something in the player and fans should trust his judgment considering he was director of college scouting at the Seattle Seahawks when they drafted Russell Wilson, and there are plenty of prospects coming out in 2022 that the team could target if things don’t work out.

As stated previously, the team’s loyal fanbase probably wanted the Panthers to make a bold statement by selecting either Trey Lance or Justin Fields. But bringing them in at this stage might do more harm than good.

What’s the point in trading for Darnold if he isn’t given the reins next season?

If it doesn’t go according to plan, then Deshaun Watson might be available or another enticing proposition such as Sam Howell out of North Carolina might be within their reach next year.

The last thing Darnold and the Panthers need is a quarterback competition heading into camp. The player’s confidence will need building up slowly before the 2021 season begins and this additional pressure of a first-round pick waiting in the wings could jeopardize his chances.

Carolina has made their bed. Further complicating matters with a top-end college prospect if one happens to fall is something they no doubt took into account before making the move for Darnold.

Everything is in place from a weapons standpoint for the No. 3 overall selection in 2018 to make a better go of things. Upgrading the protection should take priority over a quarterback to provide competition even if Teddy Bridgewater departs as expected.