Sam Darnold may be the Panthers’ projected starting quarterback for 2021. The team hasn’t ruled out drafting another one, though. Today, Carolina is sending two important offensive personnel to watch Ohio State QB Justin Fields throw at his second Pro Day.
According to Albert Breer at Sports Illustrated, offensive coordinator Joe Brady and quarterbacks coach Sean Ryan will be in attendance. Previously, head coach Matt Rhule, general manager Scott Fitterer and Director of Player Personnel Pat Stewart were on hand for his first.
Panthers OC Joe Brady and QBs coach Sean Ryan are in Columbus for Ohio State QB Justin Fields’ second pro day, I’m told. Carolina had Matt Rhule, Scott Fitterer and Pat Stewart at Fields’ first pro day.
So that’s another team with 2 sets of high-end guys having seen Fields live.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) April 14, 2021
The Panthers dealt for Darnold in part because it seems unlikely they’ll be able to land Fields or one of the other top-four QB prospects in this class. San Francisco’s move up to No. 3 overall made it that much harder, at least.
Then again, if the 49ers throw a curveball and pick Mac Jones instead, the chances of either Fields or Lance falling to No. 8 could increase dramatically.
If either one of them is on the board when they’re on the clock, the Panthers shouldn’t hesitate. Until they find a legitimate franchise QB (Darnold is not, as of yet) they have to keep swinging. Taking a chance on a prospect like Fields at least gives them another opportunity.
