5 scapegoats if things go wrong for the Carolina Panthers in 2022

Sam Darnold – Carolina Panthers QB

As it stands right now, Sam Darnold will be starting for the Carolina Panthers in Week 1 against the Cleveland Browns. But a lot could happen between now and then.

The quarterback has faced another offseason full of reports that the Panthers were in on almost every available signal-caller. Big trades didn’t come off and although Matt Corral will provide extra competition, he might need a little more time before assuming starting responsibilities.

Darnold is hoping for one more chance behind a quality offensive line and with Christian McCaffrey alongside him in the backfield. The former first-round pick has reportedly made a strong start to workouts this offseason, but there is a growing belief that the Panthers are about to pull the trigger on a trade for Baker Mayfield.

Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports stated that there is urgency from the Panthers to get a deal done. Although there appears to be a conflict between them and the Browns about how much money each will take on before the trade is confirmed.

If this happens, then Darnold won’t see the field. However, should nothing come from the speculation and the USC product is under center once again, then the margin for error is non-existent.

Darnold needs to turn things around pretty dramatically. Any further inconsistencies will not go down well whatsoever with the fanbase.