4 Panthers players who could lose depth chart position in 2022 camp

Sam Darnold – Carolina Panthers QB

The future of Sam Darnold is looking less certain than ever before. After a dismal first season with the Carolina Panthers, those in power struck a deal with the Cleveland Browns for Baker Mayfield, who looks set to assume command under center throughout 2022.

Darnold is still on the books for $18.85 million fully guaranteed, which presents a problem. General manager Scott Fitterer also stated that the Panthers are looking for a proper quarterback competition with the four hopefuls in training camp before officially deciding anything.

This might bring out the best in Darnold. Although it’s hard to say for sure considering how poor production has been since he entered the league as a top-three selection in 2018.

Not only does Darnold have to contend with Mayfield. But rookie Matt Corral will also be fighting to force his way into the primary backup role by the time Week 1 rolls around.

The Ole Miss product is seen as a work in progress after Carolina moved up to acquire him at No. 94 overall. But if he picks things up well and demonstrates real growth, then the Panthers might make him No. 2 behind Mayfield on the depth chart and look to move Darnold on in some capacity.

With trade enquiries non-existent for Darnold, this puts Carolina in a real predicament. One that could see the franchise shell out a substantial amount of dead-cap to get this complication off their hands.