The Carolina Panthers plan for quarterback Sam Darnold to start Sunday against the New England Patriots barring any pregame setbacks, a source told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Darnold officially is listed as questionable because of a shoulder injury. He also suffered a concussion last week against the Atlanta Falcons but officially cleared the concussion protocol Saturday.
Panthers coach Matt Rhule told reporters Friday that Darnold is considered a game-time decision against New England, saying Carolina must “prepare for all contingencies and expect the unexpected.”
P.J. Walker took most of the reps with the first-team offense in practice this past week and would replace Darnold under center if the former No. 3 overall draft pick is unable to play.
Walker replaced Darnold in the fourth quarter against Atlanta but has struggled in limited action this season, completing just 3 of 15 passes.
After getting off to a fast start this season with the Panthers, Darnold also has struggled lately, throwing just four touchdowns and seven interceptions over Carolina’s past five games.