Will Sam Darnold Be The Panthers Starting Quarterback In 2023? Fantasy Football Outlook

Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold is a free agent in March after spending the past two years with the team.

The former USC star was the third-overall pick by the New York Jets in the 2018 NFL Draft. After spending three years with the Jets, Darnold got traded to the Panthers.

Unfortunately, the former first-round pick didn’t play until Week 12 after he suffered a severe high ankle sprain during the preseason. However, Darnold ended the season well, winning four of his six starts.

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Will Sam Darnold Be The Panthers Starting Quarterback In 2023?

In the six games he played this year, the former USC quarterback had 1,143 passing yards and seven touchdowns compared to three interceptions. Darnold also had 106 rushing yards and two touchdowns in 2022.

Reportedly the Panthers view Darnold as a bridge-gap option, not their long-term starter.

Given how the quarterback’s career has gone, it’s no surprise the team no longer believes Darnold is the franchise guy. In 18 career games with Carolina, the former first-round pick has completed under 60% of his passes, throwing 16 touchdowns and 16 interceptions.

Which Team Could Sign Sam Darnold This Offseason?

Depending on what Carolina does at quarterback this offseason, Darnold could be back as the starter in 2023. However, don’t be surprised if Carson Wentz ends up with the Panthers.

The Washington Commanders are expected to release the quarterback this offseason. Meanwhile, new head coach Frank Reich worked with Wentz in Indianapolis and Philadelphia. While he won’t be the franchise guy, Wentz could give Carolina a bridge gap option for next year.

Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would make sense for Darnold. Tom Brady recently retired, creating a hole at quarterback for the NFC South champions. More importantly, head coach Todd Bowles was in New York when the Jets drafted Darnold in 2018.

Another potential landing spot for Darnold is the Arizona Cardinals. Kyler Murray will miss at least part of the 2023 season recovering from a torn ACL. Depending on when he is 100% healthy and the team’s record, Murray might not play at all next season.

While Colt McCoy is under contract for the 2023 season, he will be 37 years old and has missed time with injuries. Darnold would give the team a younger option with more upside to fill in while Murray is out.

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