CHARLOTTE, NC – AUGUST 27: Carolina Panthers’ Sam Darnold #14 scrimmages against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half of an NFL preseason game at Bank of America Stadium on August 27, 2021 in Charlotte, NC. Call a play from the line. Carolina. (Photo by Chris Keane/Getty Images)
An MRI revealed the severity of the ankle sprain suffered by Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold.
The current starter, who was forced off the field in last night’s preseason finale against the Buffalo Bills, will miss four to six weeks due to injury.
The NFL world took to Twitter to react to the injury news.
One fan commented, “Good news considering the season seemed to be over. But I think Carolina should be traded for a backup. Maybe Heinicke should be traded for a second round pick.” ‘ suggested.
“A typical timeline for a high ankle sprain .. Considering how he fell, it’s remarkable that that appears to be the result,” another person added.
“He can’t take a break,” said another.
Darnold was in the middle of a quarterback battle with recently acquired signal caller Baker Mayfield. The Panthers were reportedly leaning toward Mayfield as the Week 1 starter, and now the decision is all but guaranteed.
Third-round rookie QB Matt Corral was placed on the season-ending injured list after picking up a foot injury earlier this month, and PJ Walker is currently the only active backup on the Carolina roster.
Panthers may need to explore free agency and trade market to add another QB option
