The Carolina Panthers could extend Sam Darnold
The Carolina Panthers are looking at a range of options for their next quarterback this offseason. The team has reportedly met with one of the top quarterback free agents for 2023, Derek Carr, at the NFL Scouting Combine. A new report suggests the team is contemplating extending Sam Darnold for next season.
According to David Newton with EPSN, the Panthers are focusing on landing a quarterback who commands less in salary than Carr. (Carr reportedly wants around $35 million a year.) The Panthers have been in preliminary discussion to extend Darnold. Newton added signing Darnold would be a good plan if the Panthers draft a quarterback.
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The Panthers own the number eight overall spot in the 2023 NFL Draft. The Panthers might have to consider trading for a higher draft position to draft an elite quarterback. Darnold could be a starter until the rookie quarterback is ready to play. Then Darnold would be a serviceable backup.
Darnold played in six games for the Panthers last season; He led the team to four wins and two losses. Darnold threw for 1,143 passing yards with seven touchdowns and three interceptions in 2022.
