CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Carolina Panthers coach Matt Rhule said Wednesday that quarterback Sam Darnold will play at some point Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
But he added that quarterback Cam Newton will start and play a major role.
Darnold, who suffered a cracked shoulder blade in Week 9 and missed the past five games, had a CT scan and MRI on his shoulder Monday and was finally cleared for contact.
Before his injury, Darnold was struggling. In nine games this season, Darnold has thrown for 1,986 yards, seven touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He lost five of his last six games after starting the season 3-0.
The Panthers signed Newton on Nov. 11 after Darnold suffered the shoulder injury. The Panthers had hoped Newton could help salvage their season and get them into the playoffs.
But Newton has struggled, too, particularly in the passing game. Newton has thrown for four touchdowns and four interceptions, while also running for five touchdowns. The Panthers (5-9) are 1-4 in the past five games.
“When he has an opportunity to play, I certainly would love to see him show what he can do,” Rhule said of Darnold. “We brought him here as a starter. (We want to) see if he can play at that level again.”
The Panthers traded away a 2021 sixth-round pick, a 2022 second-round pick and a 2022 fourth-round pick to the Jets earlier this year for Darnold. And prior to the season, they picked up the fifth-year option on his contract, guaranteeing him $18.8 million for the 2022 season.
Darnold is the only quarterback guaranteed to be on the roster next season. Both Newton and Walker will be free agents.
As for Newton, Sunday could be his final game at Bank of America Stadium.
“I want to see Cam do all the things he does at such a high level,” Rhule said. “Move the ball downfield with his legs and with his arm.”
Other notes
— Rhule was also asked about whether he spoke to owner David Tepper about his future with the franchise. He said he has not talked to the owner about his future. In two years with the team, Rhule is 10-20.
— Rhule said rookie Brady Christensen took first team reps at left tackle, as starter Cam Erving was limited with a calf injury.
— Wide receiver DJ Moore did not practice Wednesday with a hamstring injury. Rhule said Moore should be a game-time decision.
