Report: Panthers QB Sam Darnold expected to be sidelined several weeks

When the Arizona Cardinals play host to the Carolina Panthers this weekend, the Panthers will likely be doing so with a different signal caller.

After two days of testing, Panthers starting quarterback Sam Darnold has a fractured scapula, according to the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The shoulder injury is expected to sideline Darnold for several weeks, meaning he will likely miss Sunday’s game against the Cardinals.

Should Darnold be out, the Panthers will rely on backup P.J. Walker under center. If Walker were to start at quarterback, it would mark just his second career start after starting a game for the Panthers in 2020.

In 2021, Walker has seen action in only two games. In Week 7 against the Giants, he completed three of his 14 pass attempts for 33 yards.

Entering the league as an undrafted free agent from Temple in 2017, Walker got his start in the league with the Colts. However, Walker spent time out of the league and was one of the stars of the XFL in 2020 before Carolina signed him.

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