Sam Darnold News

The San Francisco 49ers have signed quarterback Sam Darnold to a one-year contract, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports. Darnold was only able to start six games for the Panthers in his second year with the team, but was able to help the team go 4-2 in that time span by recording his lowest rate of sacks (6.7) and interceptions (2.1) of his career. The 49ers have a track record of elevating the play of their quarterbacks over the last few seasons, and the change of scenery could be good for Darnold. Darnold joins a quarterback room of Trey Lance (ankle) and Brock Purdy (elbow), both of whom are currently recovering from the injuries that ended their season. Darnold could have an opportunity for significant first-team reps in the 49ers' offseason program this year if neither quarterback is fully healthy.

The former No. 3 overall pick will be joining his third team in six years after making just six starts for the Panthers last season. Carolina preferred Baker Mayfield over Darnold to begin the year, and the two sides were always headed for a split. In San Francisco, Darnold gives the 49ers a veteran arm while both Trey Lance (ankle) and Brock Purdy (elbow) rehab significant injuries.

Darnold struggled mightily in the passing game, averaging under three yards per attempt while turning the ball over twice. The signal-caller also fumbled twice but was fortunate not to lose either. In fact, offensive lineman Michael Jordan recovered one of Darnold's fumbles for a touchdown during the third quarter. After being sidelined with a preseason ankle injury, Darnold played just six games this term, completing only 82 of 140 passes for seven touchdowns versus three interceptions. While he also scored a couple times on the ground, it's unclear where Darnold -- an unrestricted free agent this offseason -- will ply his trade during the 2023 campaign, and whether he'll get another chance to start after underwhelming stints with the Jets and Panthers since being drafted third overall in 2018.

The big passing numbers and three touchdowns were highly pleasing to fantasy managers, but from a real-world football perspective, Darnold help sink the Panthers' chances with his ball security issues. Darnold did continue to show excellent chemistry with DJ Moore, hitting his favorite receiver on a team-high six occasions for 117 yards and a second-quarter touchdown. The 2018 third overall pick also connected with Tommy Tremble (17 yards) and Shi Smith (19 yards) for his other two scores, but his two fumbles led to a total of 10 Buccaneers points. The Panthers are eliminated from postseason contention with the defeat, but Darnold will have a chance to make one more case for starting consideration in 2023 when Carolina closes out the season against the Saints on the road in Week 18.

Darnold averaged an impressive 11.4 yards per attempt and while turning in his fourth straight interception-free effort. The 2018 third overall pick also upped his completion percentage for the fourth consecutive contest, and although the ground game took center stage Saturday, Darnold impressively connected with seven different pass catchers overall. With the Panthers firmly in the mix for the NFC South crown, Darnold will have an opportunity to play a pivotal role once again in what will be a critical Week 17 road matchup against the Buccaneers on Sunday, Jan. 1.

Carolina Panthers head coach Steve Wilks said Monday that Sam Darnold will remain the team's quarterback for their Week 16 game against the Detroit Lions. Things looked great for Darnold on the Panthers' first two drives against the Steelers in Week 15, but fell off quickly afterwards. Still, he'll get the start against a softer Lions defense in Week 16, and will have another week to prepare as the team's starter. Darnold had 98 yards and a touchdown on his first two drives in Week 15, but finished the day with 225 total passing yards. He also took 4 sacks for 37 yards, but did not turn the ball over.