Carolina Panthers make the right call with Will Grier release

Releasing Will Grier after an underwhelming career with the team was a solid call to make for the Carolina Panthers heading into the new season.

The Carolina Panthers parted ways with quarterback Will Grier on Tuesday, opting to go with P.J. Walker as their backup. This brings an end to a disappointing time with the organization for the former third-round pick, who flashed his potential during the preseason but was inconsistent and failed to give those in power a reason to keep him on the roster.

When it comes to the Panthers’ backup quarterback options, neither was exactly ideal.

Grier and Walker both showed glimpses of promises throughout the three warmup games at various stages. Although putting it all together on a consistent basis became a problem.

Walker was the right choice between two players who are each better suited to serve as the third option. It isn’t off the table Carolina could still opt to add another quarterback if the right player comes available as cuts are finished this week.

Grier spent his college career with the Florida Gators and West Virginia Mountaineers before being drafted at No. 100 overall by the Panthers in 2018. Pointing to how much potential the organization believed he had as they searched for an heir apparent to Cam Newton.

Will Grier failed to reach expectations with the Carolina Panthers.

This is potential he has failed to live up to.

The signal-caller registered only 228 passing yards, throwing four interceptions without a passing touchdown. Grier isn’t a starting quarterback or a viable backup option at this point in his career – although that might change with a fresh start and a coaching staff who fully believes in his capabilities somewhere else.

If he clears waivers, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Carolina attempt to add him to the practice squad if they are unable to add another quality option. But this doesn’t seem likely considering how many teams are seeking additional depth at the position before the regular season gets underway.

For Walker, this is another opportunity for a player who resurrected what appeared to be a dead career.

After a short stint with the Indianapolis Colts, Walker joined the XFL and played well enough to earn a spot on the Panthers’ roster. He was even an MVP frontrunner before the league was disbanded due to COVID-19.

While his preseason was inconsistent, Walker showcased his ability to move in the pocket and showed surprising accuracy. It was also enough to distance himself from Grier to become No. 2 behind Sam Darnold for a second straight season.

Grier’s time in Carolina was short-lived and highlighted by his propensity to turn the football over. It was a tough choice, but the right one for the Panthers, who still could use another backup quarterback.