4 options the Panthers have with Sam Darnold after 2022 resurgence

Carolina Panthers make Sam Darnold a backup

This is the second-best option the Carolina Panthers have behind letting Sam Darnold simply leave in free agency. The fifth-year pro is one of the best backup options in the league and would be familiar with the players if an injury happened to befall whoever takes over the No. 1 spot.

Carolina’s best move is to start completely over at the position. Moving on from three years of Baker Mayfield, Teddy Bridgewater, P.J. Walker, and Sam Darnold swinging big to find a franchise quarterback they have lacked since Cam Newton’s injuries caught up with the former NFL MVP.

With Darnold under center, the Panthers are predictable and boring, giving fans few reasons to be excited. These are the exact traits you look for in a backup quarterback.

A veteran who can come in and run the system adequately without making waves or bringing a quarterback controversy with him. If Darnold is willing, then becoming an understudy and mentor despite being 25 years old himself is a viable option that could work for both parties.

Darnold should be brought back only as a last resort or as Carolina’s backup. But when push comes to shove, the quarterback’s time as an undisputed starter with the Panthers should be at an end.