5 biggest questions heading into Panthers training camp in 2021
By Will Burns
Can Sam Darnold be a consistent QB for the Carolina Panthers?
Let’s be real. Sam Darnold hasn’t been good at all so far in his NFL career.
Now, this is because of many different factors such as coaching and surrounding talent. But it doesn’t change the fact he’s been bad and things need to improve quickly now the Carolina Panthers traded for the quarterback from the New York Jets.
Being the former No. 3 overall selection, Darnold has a ton of talent. He made flashes in his three seasons with the Jets, even if these moments were few and far between.
The only problem is, for every great play Darnold made, he made a decision just as bemusing.
The Panthers seem to think they know the answer to the above question, picking up Darnold’s fifth-year option that officially makes him a free agent in 2023.
Carolina has faith that offensive coordinator Joe Brady can bring out the good traits in Darnold. But only time will tell and there isn’t a lot to go off from a production standpoint to give any real confidence.
Personally, I think Darnold will figure it out. For now, the quarterback spot represents a huge question mark for the Panthers and something that is finely balanced heading into training camp.