3 Panthers position groups that must step up vs. the Patriots in Week 9
Carolina Panthers QBs
It is highly unlikely we will see Sam Darnold make an appearance on Sunday. Although Matt Rhule stated if the quarterback is activated, it might be in a backup role providing he successfully emerges from the NFL’s concussion protocol.
If Darnold is in street clothes or is helping out on the sideline in the No. 2 role, P.J. Walker gets another chance to strap on his helmet.
No one is expecting Walker to throw for 300 yards and multiple touchdowns, but he’ll be tasked with more of a game manager role and not turning the ball over. Especially if the Carolina Panthers continue with their run-first mindset.
The New Jersey native is small by NFL quarterback standards at 5-foot-11 and 210 pounds. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves and make any Russell Wilson comparisons based on size – all Walker needs is to provide stability with a steady performance.
Walker is not the long-term answer in Carolina. But has a chance to put together game film for scouts of other teams if the Panthers decide not to keep him around next spring.
With an NFL career completion percentage of 49.3 percent, one touchdown, and five interceptions, this may be an opportunity to rewrite the narrative and secure a larger contract as an unrestricted free agent in 2022.
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The season has almost reached the halfway point and the Panthers are in prime position to make a strong push for the playoffs. If the defense stays healthy, mistakes are limited, and the offense can sustain drives, this game will be the starting point for that push.