4 debatable excuses for Sam Darnold’s poor production in 2021
By Dean Jones
What are some viable excuses behind Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold’s poor production during the 2021 season?
The Carolina Panthers made a huge call prior to the 2021 season when they traded for Sam Darnold, giving up three draft selections over a two-year period to acquire the signal-caller from the New York Jets. This was a bold move after just one season with Teddy Bridgewater under center, with the organization betting on the former first-round pick turning things around in a different environment.
Darnold left a solid enough impression in training camp. He didn’t see much of the field in the preseason, but expectations soared after an impressive start that saw the Panthers begin the campaign 3-0 in the process.
What came next was more like the Darnold we saw throughout his three years at MetLife Stadium. Erratic decision-making, poor footwork, and a lack of conviction under pressure meant the USC product failed to make the most out of another starting opportunity, which was an absolute catastrophe for head coach Matt Rhule and other primary decision-makers in Carolina.
Picking up Darnold’s fifth-year option before he got in the building adds another complicated dimension to this situation. It’s hard to believe another team will take on a fully guaranteed $18.85 million considering his production, so Carolina could be stuck with the player even if they might want to go in a different direction.
Without further ado, here are four debatable excuses behind another season of vast underachievement for Darnold in 2021.