What trait could make Ben McAdoo a success with the Panthers?

What Ben McAdoo hire means for Carolina Panthers QB Sam Darnold

Despite having Sam Darnold ranked as the third-best quarterback in the 2018 class, Ben McAdoo still had plenty of reservations. According to pre-draft reports, he was concerned about the signal-caller’s throwing mechanics.

Four years later, these mechanics continue to be a hindrance on his journey to becoming a reliable starting quarterback. This bearish outlook on Darnold prior to the 2018 draft preludes inevitable speculation that will dominate the Charlotte airwaves this offseason.

Considering the USC product hasn’t accomplished anything to shift his new offensive coordinator’s initial stance, it makes you wonder if McAdoo would have accepted this job if he knew he’d be walking into a situation where Darnold will have the reins of the offense again.

"“I think the kid [Sam Darnold] the Jets drafted has a lot of magic in his game. I think he’s special. He’s obviously a talented guy, he can make plays with his feet. I’d just have a hard time drafting a guy in the first round where you don’t necessarily like the way he throws.”"

Multiple Panthers beat writers, including Joe Person, have already suggested that the team will be in the market for a new quarterback again this offseason. This could include a veteran such as Deshaun Watson or Jimmy Garoppolo, or it could mean the team selects a new quarterback in the draft.

Regardless of which course of action the team chooses when searching for an upgrade, Matt Rhule and Scott Fitterer would be smart to make McAdoo a part of that decision-making process.

We know Rhule has more control over personnel decisions than most of his colleagues. But the former Baylor man also has to understand that he’s currently coaching for his job.

McAdoo offers a proven track record of scouting and evaluating quarterbacks. Something Rhule is yet to prove he’s competent at.

Considering Rhule is now entrusting McAdoo with the offensive unit, it would be unfair to the coordinator if he didn’t have at least some say in electing the quarterback he wants the team to pursue.

It’s hard to get too excited about the prospects of a McAdoo-guided offense right now, but perhaps this appointment could one day be looked back on as the decision that launched the team out of quarterback purgatory.