Panthers QB 2023: Who's Calling the Shots in Carolina?
Alright, guys, let's talk about the big question on every Carolina Panthers fan's mind: Who's going to be our starting quarterback in 2023? We've seen a few faces under center in recent years, and the future is still a bit up in the air. So, let's dive into the possibilities, shall we? Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and panthers qb 2023.
The Incumbent: Sam Darnold
First things first, let's talk about our current guy, Sam Darnold. He's been with the Panthers since 2021, and while he's shown some promise, he's also had his fair share of struggles. Darnold has completed 61.9% of his passes with the Panthers, throwing for 5,872 yards, 39 TDs, and 31 INTs. He's got a year left on his contract, so he's definitely in the mix for the 2023 starting job.
But here's the thing, guys: Darnold's inconsistency has been a bit of a rollercoaster. He's had some impressive games, like when he threw for 305 yards and two TDs against the Cardinals in 2021. But he's also had some clunkers, like when he threw four INTs against the Dolphins in the same season. So, while he's an option, he's far from a sure thing.
The Wildcard: Baker Mayfield
Now, let's talk about the wildcard in this QB1 race: Baker Mayfield. The former No. 1 overall pick was traded to the Panthers this offseason, and he's got a chance to compete for the starting job. Mayfield had a rocky few years with the Browns, but he showed some promise in his rookie season, throwing for 3,725 yards, 27 TDs, and 14 INTs.
Mayfield has the arm strength and mobility that the Panthers have been craving, and he's got a chip on his shoulder after being traded. He's got a chance to prove himself in Carolina, and if he can find some consistency, he could be the answer at QB for the Panthers in 2023.
The Future: A Draft Pick?
Of course, the Panthers could also look to the future by drafting a quarterback in the 2023 NFL Draft. There are always some intriguing prospects coming out of college, and the Panthers could use a long-term solution at the position.
Some names to watch in the 2023 draft class include Ohio State's C.J. Stroud, Alabama's Bryce Young, and Florida's Anthony Richardson. These guys are all potential franchise QBs, and if the Panthers think one of them is the future, they could pull the trigger and draft him next April.
The Bottom Line
So, guys, what's the verdict? Who's going to be the Panthers QB in 2023? It's still up in the air, but it's an exciting question to think about. Darnold, Mayfield, or a draft pick? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure: the Panthers need a consistent, reliable QB to lead them back to the playoffs.
Until then, we'll be on the edge of our seats, waiting to see who's calling the shots in Carolina in 2023. Whoever it is, we'll be there, cheering them on, hoping for the best. Go Panthers!