Sam Darnold responds to Panthers' rumored interest in other quarterbacks
Sam Darnold isn’t blocking out the noise — the incumbent Panthers starting quarterback is hearing all the rumors swirling around Carolina.
Once a prized prospect at USC, Darnold wasn’t a good fit with the New York Jets, and was disappointing in his first season with the Panthers after the franchise gave up a pretty-penny to acquire him. Now, with coach Matt Rhule feeling the heat, Carolina has been in the market for a quarterback in hopes it’ll provide some more wins, saving their jobs in-turn.
Still, Darnold knows he has a job to do. While he has respect for the process, the former USC quarterback told the media on Wednesday that he’s still going to do his part.
“I think no matter what they’re always going to do what’s best for the team,” explained Darnold. “With that being said, whether that’s (Panthers General Manager) Scott [Fitterer] going out and getting someone he feels like could do a better job, that’s not for me to judge. He’s going to do his job to the best of his ability.
“I’ve got to hold up my end of the bargain. If I’m the starting quarterback for this team, I have to go out there and play good football, not turn the ball over and put the ball in the end-zone.”
Thus far this offseason, the Panthers drafted former Ole Miss star Matt Corral in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Also, the franchise was heavily linked to Browns star Deshaun Watson, and remain the likeliest destination for the man Watson is replacing in Cleveland, Baker Mayfield.
Nevertheless, Sam Darnold will do whatever he can to hold onto the Panthers starting gig. However, it’s evident the franchise will be hoping for better results than what the former USC star provided in 2021.
NFL insider provides insight into Panthers interest in acquiring Baker Mayfield
Could Baker Mayfield be on the move? NFL insider Jonathan Jones believes the former Oklahoma quarterback could be headed east to play for the Carolina Panthers. Jones tweeted the following message regarding a potential move to Carolina for Mayfield:
“As minicamps begin today for the Browns and Panthers, trade talks between the teams continue surrounding QB Baker Mayfield, per sources. The main issue remains Mayfield’s salary and how much (or how little) teams pay.”
Jones added this in an additional tweet:
“There’s urgency on Carolina’s side to execute the deal soon so Mayfield can get some time in minicamp with the Panthers. For the Browns, it’s the best offer they have. Talks ongoing.”
So there you have it. An urgent Panthers front office wants to solve their quarterback situation but need to figure out whether they’re willing to fork over the kind of money Mayfield is looking for.