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At one point this offseason, it looked like Sam Darnold could be in line to start at quarterback for the Panthers, but then the team traded for Baker Mayfield. And while the team initially didn't decide on a starting QB after the trade, it seemed clear that Mayfield would eventually earn that role.
Darnold was set to be the backup QB entering the season, but he suffered an ankle injury in the preseason and will now miss time to start the season.
How long is Darnold out? Who will be the backup until he gets back? Read below for updates on Darnold's situation.
What Happened To Sam Darnold?
Sam Darnold was injured during Friday's preseason game against the Buffalo Bills.
Darnold took a hit from Bills defensive tackle C.J. Brewer as he was letting the ball go during Friday's game. The Bills had to cart Darnold off the field. He was diagnosed with a high ankle sprain.
How Long Is Sam Darnold Out?
The latest injury update on Sam Darnold is that Darnold will miss at least four weeks with a high ankle sprain.
Darnold will likely open the season on the IR, but with a designation to return. If he misses the first four weeks of the season, Darnold would be set to debut on October 9th when the team hosts the 49ers.
While Darnold won't be the starter for the Panthers when he returns, he is one of the better backup quarterbacks in the NFL. If he's pressed into action, he'd just be a low-end QB2, but his presence wouldn't kill the fantasy value of the rest of the team.
Who Will Back Up Baker Mayfield?
While Darnold is set to be the backup QB once he's back, the Panthers are expected to turn to P.J. Walker until he returns. Early in camp, Walker looked destined to be released, but a season-ending injury to rookie quarterback Matt Corral and now this injury to Darnold opens up a short-term role for Walker.
Last season, Walker appeared in five games for the Panthers, with one start. He completed 54.5% of his passes for 362 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions.
Walker's a fun quarterback to watch, but if the Panthers need him over the first four to six weeks, the team's overall fantasy ceiling takes a hit. Walker's accuracy issues would negatively impact the team's pass-catchers, though he might be good for Christian McCaffrey if only because there would be an increased reliance on the run game.
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