The Carolina Panthers will look like an entirely different team in Week 6. Not only did they fire Matt Rhule after Week 5, but it was announced on Monday that Baker Mayfield will miss multiple weeks due to a sprained ankle, per Adam Schefter of ESPN. Schefter then reported in a corresponding Tweet that PJ Walker is “now in line” to start at QB for Carolina in Week 6.
The Panthers began the day by firing Rhule. The team's lackluster 1-4 start to the season ultimately led to the demise of the veteran head coach in Carolina. Steve Wilks will take over as interim head coach for the time being.
Meanwhile, Mayfield has labored to open the season as well. The former Cleveland Browns quarterback was a fairly sought-after player on the trade block during the offseason. The Panthers ended up “winning” the Mayfield sweepstakes. However, he's thrown just four touchdowns compared to four interceptions through five games. Mayfield has also tallied 962 passing yards to go along with a 71.9 QB rating.
Baker Mayfield's ankle injury will allow PJ Walker to start at QB with Sam Darnold still out as well. Walker is in his third NFL season and has played in parts of 10 total games during that span. He went 5-6 through the air with 60 passing yards in his 1 game played so far in 2022.
Walker may not be the answer long-term, but he will look to help the Panthers play a competitive brand of football with Mayfield injured.
Meanwhile, Steve Wilks will look to officially take over from Matt Rhule and secure the coaching job in Carolina by finishing the season strong. The Panthers won't make a playoff run barring an incredible turnaround, but Wilks could demonstrate impressive coaching prowess moving forward.
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