Panthers QB Will Avoid Injured Reserve

The Carolina Panthers have been struggling mightily in 2022, leading to the firing of both their Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator, and while it's hard to blame the struggles on just one person, newly acquired Quarterback Baker Mayfield has been a big part of the problem that has led to their 1-4 start to the year. On the weekend, Mayfield unfortunately suffered a high ankle sprain, similar to the injury of Sam Darnold, and while many feared he would miss quite a lot of time, today, the team got a second opinion on the ankle injury, and the news is very positive for the former No. 1 overall pick.

#Panthers QB Baker Mayfield received second opinions on his high ankle sprain that confirmed there’s no major damage and no surgery needed, per sources. He’s not going on IR as of now, leaving open the possibility he could be back within four games.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 11, 2022

The second opinion told Mayfield and the Panthers that there is no serious damage to the ankle, and while he will miss some time, the expectation as of right now is that the team won't need to place him on Injured Reserve, with optimism he could return in a few weeks.

This news may come with mixed reviews for Panthers fans, who want to see something new at Quarterback at this point, and with PJ Walker expected to start this week, it could be the spark that this offence needs to finally explode. Either way, good news for Mayfield, who will likely be back in a few weeks if everything surrounding the injury goes well.

Photo Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports