4 role players the Carolina Panthers should consider extending

P.J. Walker – Carolina Panthers QB

Sam Darnold is the main man under center, of that there is little doubt. The Carolina Panthers put all their faith in the former USC star after deciding to ship Teddy Bridgewater to the Denver Broncos, which is a big gamble that comes with feast or famine possibilities.

Although Darnold is the undisputed No. 1, every good team needs a capable backup if the worst happens to their starter.

P.J. Walker holds the cards in pursuit of winning this role from Will Grier if last season is any indication, although there will be a battle at training camp before a formal decision is made.

Walker rejoined his former college coach Matt Rhule in the pros last season and certainly looked the part against the Detroit Lions in his first career star at the next level. His accuracy, mobility, and ability to stretch the field had some disputing whether he could be the one to replace Bridgewater when the time arrived.

Whether a dismal outing against the New Orleans Saints when Bridgewater was finally put out of his misery altered thoughts about the ex-XFL MVP frontrunner is up for debate. But the signal-caller will be backing up Darnold on the final year of his deal.

That being said, if Walker can show growth in practice, enhance the locker room atmosphere, and make the most out of any time he’s on the field, then the Panthers might just extend his stay beyond next season.