High-ranking AFC executive predicts backup role for Sam Darnold in 2022

A high-ranking AFC executive predicts Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold to be a backup from the 2022 season onwards.

One of the biggest decisions awaiting the Carolina Panthers this offseason is just what they are going to do at the quarterback position. Some questionable and rash moves have seen a carousel of failed options come into the fold under Matt Rhule’s leadership, with Teddy Bridgewater, Sam Darnold, and P.J. Walker all manning the plate under center before Cam Newton’s sensational return.

Darnold was acquired from the New York Jets for three draft picks, which saw Bridgewater traded to the Denver Broncos for a sixth-round selection and a $17 million dead-cap figure in 2021. After an encouraging start, the former USC star endured a torrid run of production before being placed on the reserve/injured list and Newton’s arrival only casts further doubt on his future in Carolina.

The same problems regarding Darnold continue to emerge.

His confidence just isn’t where it needs to be and there is a clear processing issue in the face of pressure. So it’s hard to envisage a situation where the Panthers can rely on him unless significant adjustments are made.

Carolina picked up Darnold’s fifth-year option without the signal-caller playing a down before the campaign. This is costing them $18.85 million guaranteed and only complicates the situation further if those in power decide to move on from their second starting quarterback in as many seasons.

Finding a trade partner for Darnold would be extremely difficult. Although not entirely impossible considering his age and the fact another team might feel they could be the ones to unlock his potential.

According to one high-ranking AFC executive, that might have to be from a backup role initially.

Sam Darnold could be demoted to a backup role moving forward.

In a recent article from ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler, a source told the reporter that Darnold is still liked around the league, but his inability to prove trustworthy in big moments might put teams off making him a starting option in 2022 or beyond.

"“He’s probably a backup at this point. I know some teams still like him, and he works hard — a really good kid and all that. I just don’t know if you can trust him in big moments.”"

This perception of Darnold isn’t going to shock anybody.

A dismal three years at MetLife Stadium and a blown opportunity to turn his career around in Carolina aren’t exactly confidence-boosting for the player.

The Panthers saw something in Darnold that clearly wasn’t there. Now they might be stuck with the player for one more season and even if the organization does find a willing trade partner, one suspects they’d have to eat a considerable portion of his salary to strike a deal.

Constant change and uncertainty at the most important position on the field are holding the Panthers back. A clear, concise plan needs to be constructed this offseason one way or another and the team has to stick with it no matter what.

Otherwise, Carolina is only going to get so far.

Darnold is their latest failed experiment. One that the Panthers might be counting the cost of for a while yet.