3 Panthers players who need a massive performance at the Bucs
By Dean Jones
Sam Darnold – Carolina Panthers QB
The Carolina Panthers could go looking for a big name to finally solve their constant quarterback struggles since Matt Rhule took charge. Acquiring a veteran in the trade market might be difficult considering the organization doesn’t currently possess a Day 2 pick in the 2022 NFL draft, and one also has to consider which esteemed signal-caller would actually waive their no-trade clause to join the franchise given their current state.
Sam Darnold is the only quarterback under contract in 2022 after the Panthers picked up his fifth-year option that comes with a guaranteed $18.85 million. The former USC star hasn’t exactly proven he’s the right man for the job long-term, so there is still a lot riding on the final fixture for the player.
Darnold is Rhule’s guy. The man he gave up three draft selections to acquire from the New York Jets.
A gamble that hasn’t exactly paid off.
What comes next for Darnold is unclear. But it’s absolutely vital he finishes the campaign on a high note at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Another performance like we’ve seen plenty from the player from Week 4 onwards could be the final nail in his coffin. Darnold might end up being the league’s most expensive backup in 2022 and unless issues such as processing and footwork improve dramatically, then nothing much will change in terms of performance.