Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold has struggled over the past few weeks, and he now has an injury that will cause him to miss some time. On Thursday, Panthers coach Matt Rhule announced that Darnold will go on injured reserve and is expected to miss at least four weeks after he sustained an incomplete fracture of his right shoulder blade. The injury was believed to be sustained during the second quarter of Sunday's 24-6 loss to the New England Patriots.
Darnold has been banged-up as of late, as he was in the league's concussion protocol ahead of Sunday's loss The fourth-year quarterback was officially listed as questionable to play but did indeed suit up. He had another rough performance, however, throwing for just 172 yards along with three interceptions.
The former No. 3 overall pick has cooled off after what was thought to be a hot start. Darnold has thrown 10 interceptions in his last six games and has 11 overall, which is tied for the most in the NFL this season. He has not recorded a touchdown since Week 6, and Sunday marked the second game this season where he completed fewer than 50% of his passes.
Overall, Darnold has thrown for 1,986 yards, seven touchdowns and 11 interceptions in nine games played.
With Darnold sidelined, in comes P.J. Walker. The Temple product has known Rhule for years and has seen some playing time this year in three games. Carolina will also sign quarterback Matt Barkley to back up Walker, according to Joe Person of The Athletic.
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