Teddy Bridgewater used to be the best backup quarterback in the NFL. Now that he’s starting for the Panthers, they’ll need to find somebody who can fill that role behind him. There’s currently a vigorous battle between Will Grier and P.J. Walker to settle that question.
After yesterday’s practice, coach Matt Rhule left open the possibility that the team will carry three quarterbacks this year and the competition between Grier and Walker will continue week to week.
Matt Rhule says if Panthers keep three QBs, the backup competition between Will Grier and PJ Walker will continue week to week.
— Joe Person (@josephperson) August 31, 2020
In the past, using an extra roster spot on another backup QB might have been wasteful. This year, it makes more sense. Also, the Panthers have the option of keeping one of them on the practice squad and use one of their four protected spots so that other teams can’t poach them.
Based on Grier’s performance last season, he’s a strong candidate to take one of those four protected spots. Walker could instead, in theory.
For what it’s worth, Pro Football Focus is projecting Walker will win this competition. They have only ranked him No. 30 among backups, though.
