Panthers temporary coach Steve Wilkes reporters Wednesday’s quarterback PJ Walker vs the Pirates kicks off on Sunday.
Walker’s starting gesture marked the first time in his career that he had started back-to-back matches. Wilkes also mentioned that Jacob Eason will serve as Walker’s reserve back-back.
Last week, Walker struggled to find an offensive rhythm, tying 10 of 16 passes for just 60 yards in the Panthers’ 24-10 loss to the Rams. He also left the match due to a neck injury. Wilkes’ decision to start Walker comes the same day Sam Darnold returned to training after he was set to return from the injured reserve.
However, Wilkes told reporters he wanted to give Darnold more time to recover. Panthers (1-5) have 21 days to activate Darnold to the 53-man roster.
“It all depends on [Darnold] And how he’s progressing,” Wilkes said. “…You don’t want to pressure him too soon because he hasn’t done anything in a while. I don’t want him to suffer a setback.”
Darnold, who played 4-7 with the Carolina primary last season, suffered a sprained ankle and missed the first six games of the season for the Panthers. In 2021, Darnold threw 2,527 yards, nine touchdowns, and 13 interceptions.
Meanwhile, Baker Mayfield was suspended from practice on Wednesday as he continues to recover from an ankle sprain. Entering Sunday’s game, the Panthers have lost 12 of their last 13 games.
More NFL coverage:
For more coverage of the Carolina Panthers, go to All Panthers.
[ad_2]