Can Sam Darnold play his way into being Panthers’ starter for 2023?

Sam Darnold is one of the many pleasant surprises that have occurred for the Carolina Panthers in 2022. grown a beard. Oh, and he’s also been pretty darn good.

The fifth-year quarterback, who was an afterthought at the beginning of the regular season, has emerged as the best option under center for Carolina—who’s now just a pair of wins away from an NFC South championship. So, as he’s played quite the hand in getting the Panthers where they are now, we must ask—can Darnold be this team’s leading man heading into 2023?

Obviously, this should hinge on how he finishes this season—as there is a very realistic possibility that his play will be enough to drive the Panthers straight into the playoffs. And if he gets there—and continues to perform well—he may force the organization’s hand in regards to offering him a new deal.

But what should happen if they ultimately miss the playoffs—and not as a result of his play? If Darnold, say, goes into the next two games, drops one, but puts up another 100+ passer rating—where does that leave the Panthers?

Since taking over the job in Week 12, Darnold has posted a 104.3 passer rating—the fifth-highest amongst all starters over that span. His control of the ball and athleticism have helped to transform this offense from a lost one into a functional (and possibly feared) unit.

As time goes by, even offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo is clearly more comfortable with Darnold. He’s fit the game plan like a glove—with his strong arm, mobility and growth allowing McAdoo to open up the playbook a bit more week by week.

This may leave the Panthers in an awkward spot, especially if they’re not in position to sign, draft or trade for a franchise quarterback this offseason. Darnold will they accept a one-year deal that is essentially a prove-it contract? Do they have enough evidence from Darnold’s past performances to let him go or do they give him a one-year prove-it deal?

Again, we should get a clearer answer very soon. But Darnold may keep giving Carolina something to think about by season’s end.