5 major storylines to monitor at Panthers mandatory minicamp in 2022

Will QBs do enough to prevent another Carolina Panthers trade?

Perhaps the biggest factor remaining for the Carolina Panthers is what exactly to do at the quarterback position. Sam Darnold, Matt Corral, and P.J. Walker are battling it out for status at the moment, but this is a fluid situation with almost every possible option on the table.

The Panthers are running a real risk if they decide to install Darnold as the starter once again. His production in 2021 was a disaster and although the signal-caller made a lasting impression at OTAs, getting it done in competitive games remains a complication for the USC product.

Corral will also get a chance to potentially fill the starting job. He looks tailormade for Ben McAdoo’s scheme, but the third-round selection needs to pick things up in double-quick time to provide the confidence needed to throw him in at the deep end.

If those in power don’t like what they see, then expect the Panthers to go into the trade market for someone like Baker Mayfield or Jimmy Garoppolo. Carolina has the salary-cap space to pull off any deal, so it’s up to Darnold and Corral to convince the decision-makers that their current options are sufficient.

Every throw will be scrutinized heavily. There will also be a focus on chemistry with the team’s pass-catchers and how each signal-caller is adapting into a leadership role over the next few days.

Whatever impression the duo leaves is going to have some significant ramifications on the Panthers one way or another. But there is just no telling which way it’s going to go right now.