2 min read • December 21, 2021
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Sam Darnold, the former No. 3 pick, could be an option for the Panthers to start at quarterback this week against Tampa Bay.
Darnold has been on Injured Reserve since Week 10 with a scapula fracture in his throwing shoulder, but was reportedly cleared for contact Monday.
Dr. David Chao, ProFootballDoc, said Darnold should be medically ready to play, but whether he will be able to get his throwing mechanics in order is a different question.
Chao said the scapula/shoulder blade is an important part of the throwing mechanics and it could be tricky for Darnold to pick up his old throwing motion right away in practice.
It will be up to head coach Matt Rhule to decide which quarterback he wants to start against the Buccaneers Sunday.
Cam Newton has started the last four games for the Panthers, all losses.
Newton has three passing touchdowns, four interceptions and four rushing touchdowns in that stretch.
P.J. Walker started Carolina's Week 10 win over the Cardinals. Walker was 22 for 29 for 167 yards and one interception in that game.
Darnold, the USC product, had 7 passing touchdowns, 11 interceptions and 5 rushing touchdowns in his 9 starts this season.
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