Sam Darnold's playing status updated vs New England Patriots

Carolina Panthers starting quarterback Sam Darnold has cleared the NFL’s concussion protocol, but remains a game-time decision, according to Panthers insider Joe Person. The unclear injury status stems from an unspecified shoulder issue.

The Panthers enter Sunday’s matchup 4-4 after a 3-0 start. The offense has struggled since star running back Christian McCaffrey went down, forcing him to the injury reserve list. Since that time, Darnold’s production has tanked, reverting closer to his time as a New York Jet.

Darnold is completing 60.8 percent of his passes, racking up 1,814 passing yards and seven touchdowns with eight interceptions. He has added 34 carries for 176 rushing yards and five touchdowns.

After Sam Darnold’s concussion, backup quarterback PJ Walker closed out the 19-13 win over the Atlanta Falcons. The second-year quarterback could make his second NFL start Sunday. Walker has 401 career passing yards with one touchdown and five interceptions. However, he is 1-0 in his only start.

Panthers activate Christian McCaffrey

The Carolina Panthers have activated running back Christian McCaffrey to the active roster ahead of Sunday’s game against the New England Patriots. Carolina is hopeful he’ll play tomorrow vs. the Patriots, but do not believe he’s a full go. McCaffrey has not played since the Panthers’ week three win against the Houston Texans. After that game the Panthers’ offense went into a tailspin and Carolina was losers of its next four games. But the Panthers were able to bounce back last week with a 19-13 Victory on the road against NFC south rival the Atlanta Falcons.

Before he went down, McCaffrey had 201 yards rushing on 52 attempts and one touchdown. he also made 16 receptions for 163 yards. Over those first three games, he was responsible for an average of 121.3 yards from scrimmage for the Carolina offense. And with him coming back, that will help boost the Panthers’ offense which has been struggling since he went down.

In Christian McCaffrey’s absence, former Oklahoma State star Chuba Hubbard has carried the load. In Week Five against the Philadelphia Eagles, the rookie running back had his best game, rushing for 101 yards. The Panthers also added veteran Ameer Abdullah to provide experience and pass catching. While neither provides the package McCaffrey brings, they proved serviceable in the Panthers’ win over the Falcons.

With every precaution in place, Rhule and his staff remain confident in McCaffrey’s ability to fight through injury and offer value to his team.