4 things P.J. Walker must show at Colts in preseason Week 1
By Dean Jones
What does Carolina Panthers quarterback P.J. Walker need to show during his time on the field at the Indianapolis Colts in preseason Week 1?
It’ll probably be a relief for P.J. Walker to get back onto the field and start taking some meaningful reps under center once again when the Carolina Panthers visit the Indianapolis Colts for their Week 1 preseason contest on Sunday.
The quarterback has plenty of pressure on his shoulders in pursuit of winning the QB2 battle with Will Grier. Sam Darnold is the unquestioned starter, obviously. So it’s up to Walker to make the most of a starting chance at Lucas Oil Stadium after Matt Rhule declared that the first-team unit won’t be involved on Sunday.
Carolina’s decision to go with Walker confirms that he is in pole position to become the primary backup in 2021. Grier will also take some reps in the second half, but if the former XFL MVP candidate shows enough during his time on the field, it will enhance his claims further.
Carolina Panthers need a solid backup behind Sam Darnold in 2021.
It’s been a mixed bag for Walker during Panthers training camp so far. This is the first proper offseason he’s had in Carolina and going up against his former team on Sunday should be a solid measuring stick regarding just what improvements he’s made from 2020.
Walker did manage a victory under center versus the Detroit Lions. But his outing against the New Orleans Saints in Week 17 cast doubt on his potential to ever become more than a backup with useful skills.
With this in mind, here are four things Walker must show at the Colts on Sunday.