5 critical takeaways from Scott Fitterer’s post-free agency presser

Sam Darnold faces a fight for his Carolina Panthers future

After a torrid season overall following his trade from the New York Jets, it appears as if the writing is on the wall for Sam Darnold. The quarterback’s erratic decision-making and clear inability to process the field efficiently led to his undoing once again, leaving the organization with no alternative other than to explore alternatives before the 2022 season.

It’s highly likely that Darnold will be part of the equation after the Panthers triggered his fifth-year option with a guaranteed $18.85 million. General manager Scott Fitterer highlighted the need to continue developing the USC product in the hope he can salvage something from his career, but with only P.J. Walker on the roster, they are definitely going to make another move at the most important position on the field.

"“The whole key is bringing Sam along. We threw him in last year, kinda limited in OTAs and everything that we had. We have to develop our owns guys, and P.J. Walker as well. But I think we will look to add to the group as well. That’s one emphasis going into this, whether it’s through the draft, trade, whatever it may be. We’re gonna add to the room.”"

Fitterer clearly wants to keep his options open. And he was reluctant to show Carolina’s hand regarding their draft plans despite speaking at length about the importance of having that rookie quarterback contract to improve other areas.

Only time will tell as to what this means for Darnold. Fitterer added that he was in the lead right now for the team’s starting position in 2022, but that is likely to change before the players get put through their paces at OTAs and in training camp.