Sam Darnold has thrown past the sticks on 45.8% of his passes this season, the 3rd-highest rate in the NFL, completing these passes at a 58.8% rate (6th-highest).

The Vikings have aligned under center on 49.2% of snaps this season, the 2nd-highest rate in the NFL, trailing only the Lions (54.5%).

Sam Darnold completed all 6 of his passes against the blitz for 89 yards and a touchdown (14.8 YPA) while Jordan Love completed 16 of 25 passes against the blitz for 157 yards, a touchdown, and 2 of his 3 total interceptions (6.3 YPA) in Week 4.

Notches sixth three-score game

Darnold completed 22 of 35 pass attempts for 246 yards and three touchdowns while rushing five times for 11 yards in Sunday's 27-24 win over the Seahawks.

Analysis: Darnold lifted his team past Seattle late in the fourth quarter when he stepped up in the face of heavy pressure before rifling a bomb to Justin Jefferson for the game-deciding score. The late-blooming Darnold had already tossed two scores in the first half of Sunday's win, resulting in the signal-caller's sixth game recording three or more total touchdowns this season. The 2018 first-round selection is now up to 3,776 passing yards and 32 touchdowns (with 11 interceptions) through 15 starts…read more

Solid numbers in easy win

Darnold completed 24 of 40 passes for 231 yards with a touchdown and an interception in the Vikings' 30-12 win over the Bears on Monday night.

Analysis: The Vikings had the luxury of running a balanced attack against the hapless Bears, so Darnold didn't have to do anywhere near as much as he had against the Falcons in Week 14. However, the veteran quarterback still put together a solid effort that saw him connect with seven different targets overall, including starting wideouts Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison seven times apiece. Darnold's one scoring toss went to Jefferson as well from seven yards out with just over five minutes remaining…read more

Career-best day in win

Darnold completed 22 of 28 passes for 347 yards with five touchdowns and no interceptions and added four rushes for seven yards in the Vikings' 42-21 win over the Falcons on Sunday.

Analysis: Darnold and the Vikings punted after seven plays on their first drive, but the offensive showcase began on Minnesota's second possession in the form of a 49-yard touchdown pass to Jordan Addison. Darnold encountered little resistance the rest of the way while accumulating single-game career highs in passing yards and touchdowns, hitting Justin Jefferson (12 yards, 52 yards) and Addison (11 yards, six yards) for his other four scoring tosses. Darnold now has multiple touchdown-pass tallies…read more

Leads big comeback Sunday

Darnold completed 21 of 31 passes for 235 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 23-22 win over the Cardinals. He added 22 rushing yards on four carries.

Analysis: The Vikings were in a 19-6 hole late in the third quarter as Darnold struggled to find time in the pocket, but the QB led an impressive late comeback, hitting Johnny Mundt for a four-yard score just before the end of the third and then connecting with Aaron Jones on a five-yard TD with only 1:13 left in the fourth. It's the fifth time in the last six games that Darnold has tossed multiple TDs, a stretch in which he's posted an 11:5 TD:INT. He'll look to keep rolling, and keep the Vikings on…read more

Picks apart Bears with deep balls

Darnold completed 22 of 34 passes for 330 yards with two touchdowns and zero interceptions in Sunday's 30-27 overtime win against the Bears.

Analysis: Darnold crushed the Bears with deep pass attempts, as he tallied three completions of at least 40 yards and seven of at least 20. That led to his first 300-yard passing game of the season, though he was aided by overtime to get there. Darnold also tacked on passing scores from two and five yards away, marking his fourth multi-touchdown effort in six games since Minnesota's bye. After a brief shaky stretch, Darnold has returned to form as a solid fantasy contributor.

Logs full practice Thursday

Darnold (foot) was a full practice participant Thursday.

Analysis: After beginning Week 12 prep as limited due to a foot injury Wednesday, Darnold was able to handle all on-field work one day later, setting him up to continue leading the Vikings offense Sunday in Chicago. Since Minnesota's Week 6 bye, he's completed 112 of 156 passes (71.8 percent) for 1,276 yards, eight touchdowns and six interceptions, rushed 26 times for 105 yards and another TD and fumbled twice (both lost).

Dealing with foot issue

Darnold was a limited participant in practice Wednesday due to a foot injury.

Analysis: Darnold kicked off last week as a limited participant due to a right hand injury but followed up with a full session one day later, allowing him to suit up this past Sunday at Tennessee. He's tending to a new health concern this week, though, meaning his status will be watched as the weekend approaches to see if he's in any danger of being sidelined Sunday in Chicago.

Looks healthy with three TDs

Darnold (right hand) completed 20 of 32 pass attempts for 246 yards and two touchdowns while adding 18 rushing yards and a third score (one fumble) off of eight carries in Sunday's 23-13 win over Tennessee.

Analysis: Darnold was dealing with a minor injury to his throwing hand coming out of his worst performance of the season against the Jaguars last week. The veteran signal-caller bounced back fully from the three-pick outing with three touchdowns in Minnesota's eighth win of the year. Now healthy, Darnold makes for a fine fantasy play against the flailing Bears next Sunday.

Full practice Thursday

Darnold (right hand) practiced fully Thursday.

Analysis: One day removed from being limited due to an injury to his throwing hand Wednesday, Darnold was able to handle every practice rep, paving the way for him to continue to direct the Vikings offense. On Sunday, he'll be taking on a Titans defense that has given up the second-fewest yards per attempt (6.21) to opposing quarterbacks on the campaign.

Dealing with hand issue

Darnold was a limited participant at Wednesday's practice due to a right hand injury.

Analysis: Darnold offered up sterling quarterback play through the first four weeks of the campaign, tallying an 11:3 TD:INT and completing 68.9 percent of his passes. In five games since then, his completion percentage (68.4) is nearly the same, but he's fallen off to a 6:7 TD:INT during that stretch. Darnold now is dealing with a health concern to his throwing hand, so even if he doesn't miss Sunday's game against the Titans, his accuracy could take a hit in the short term.

Disastrous effort in win

Darnold completed 24 of 38 passes for 241 yards, no touchdowns and three interceptions in Sunday's 12-7 win over the Jaguars.

Analysis: Darnold turned in his worst performance of the season by any measure, highlighted by three interceptions -- all of which came when he targeted Justin Jefferson. After throwing only five picks across his first seven starts of the campaign, Darnold now has five in his last two contests. The Vikings won both games despite his efforts, so Darnold should have a comfortable hold on the starting job, though he'll need a better showing in Week 11 against the Titans for fantasy managers to continue to…read more

Throws three TDs on SNF

Darnold completed 28 of 34 pass attempts for 290 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions while rushing four times for 14 yards and surrendering a fumble in Sunday's 21-13 win over the Colts.

Analysis: Darnold completed his third game with at least three touchdowns this season. It came at the cost of three turnovers (two picks, one fumble), but the overall results were positive from a fantasy perspective. Darnold is now up to 1,900 passing yards, 17 touchdowns and seven interceptions through eight starts with Minnesota this season. The 2018 first-round pick continues to surpass expectations in his new digs as the Vikings prepare to take on the Jaguars next Sunday.

Clean performance in Week 8 loss

Darnold completed 18 of 25 passes for 240 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions and rushed three times for six yards in the Vikings' 30-20 loss to the Rams on Thursday night.

Analysis: Darnold's final numbers were acceptable from a fantasy perspective, but he also wasthe subject of a controversial play that essentially sealed the Vikings' defeat. Lined up in shotgun formation at his own five-yard line with 1:36 remaining, Darnold struggled to find an open man and then was brought down in the end zone by the Rams' Byron Young, although the second-year edge rusher clearly appeared to pull the quarterback's face mask in the process of generating a safety. Nevertheless, there was…read more

Inconsistent in Week 7 loss

Darnold completed 22 of 27 passes for 259 yards with a touchdown and an interception and added four rushes for 39 yards in the Vikings' 31-29 loss to the Lions on Sunday.

Analysis: Darnold took four sacks from a Lions defense missing Aidan Hutchinson (IR, lower leg), including on a final play that he'd helped make possible by successfully spiking the ball with one second remaining. The 2018 third overall pick had opened the game in optimistic fashion by helping lead Minnesota to 10 first-quarter points. Darnold had trouble answering once the Lions roared back with three second-quarter touchdowns, but he did record a 25-yard scoring strike to Justin Jefferson early in the…read more

Shaky in victory

Darnold completed 14 of 31 passes for 179 yards, no touchdowns and one interception in Sunday's 23-17 win over the Jets. He also rushed five times for 11 yards and lost a fumble.

Analysis: Darnold experienced significant struggles for the first time this season, as he combined to complete only nine of his 22 passes to Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. There were several potential explanations for the down performance, as the Jets are a tough defensive matchup and Darnold also suffered an apparent chest injury midway through the first quarter that caused him to miss one play. In addition, the Vikings jumped ahead early, causing the offense to limit its aggressiveness for much…read more

Overcomes turnovers in win

Darnold completed 20 of 28 passes for 275 yards with three touchdowns and one interception and added seven carries for 15 yards in the Vikings' 31-29 win over the Packers on Sunday. He also lost a fumble.

Analysis: Darnold and the Vikings appeared well on their way to another impressive victory during a first half in which they jumped out to a 28-7 lead with help of the quarterback's pair of touchdown tosses to Jordan Addison (29 yards) and Justin Jefferson (14 yards). However, Darnold played a part in aiding Green Bay's comeback in the second half, tossing an interception at the Packers' two-yard line and then losing the handle on the ball during a sack at his own 24-yard line early in the fourth…read more

Puts in full practice

Darnold (knee) was a full participant at Wednesday's walkthrough.

Analysis: Darnold emerged from Sunday's win against the Texans with a bone bruise in his left knee. When speaking to the media Wednesday, Darnold said he's taking the injury "one day at a time" and also had a sleeve to protect his left leg, according to Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com. With an uncapped session under his belt, Darnold seemingly is good to go for Sunday's contest at Green Bay, but whether or not he has wideout Jordan Addison (ankle) -- who was limited Wednesday -- at his disposal for the first…read more

Not expected to miss time

The Vikings announced Monday that Darnold sustained a bone bruise to his left knee during Sunday's 34-7 win over the Texans and is not expected to miss any time, Andrew Krammer of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Analysis: Darnold underwent an MRI on Monday after he missed one play in the third quarter of Sunday's win over Houston, with tests revealing that the veteran quarterback didn't sustain any structural damage to his knee. It's also encouraging for the Vikings offense that the team isn't expressing real concern about Darnold's health heading into a key road divisional matchup against the Packers. Across three games this season, Darnold has thrown for a league-leading eight touchdowns with just two…read more

Getting knee checked out Monday

Darnold confirmed that he will undergo an MRI on his left knee after he missed one play in the third quarter of the Vikings' 34-7 win over the Texans on Sunday, when he took a low hit from Houston's Danielle Hunter, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports. He completed 17 of 28 pass attempts for 181 yards and four touchdowns and no interceptions in the victory.

Analysis: Darnold downplayed the knee issue when he spoke to the media following Sunday's game, though he admitted he wasn't sure if the injury would limit his participation in practice during the upcoming week. After making a brief visit to the medical tent on the Vikings' sideline to have his knee checked out late in the third quarter, Darnold didn't look to be too hindered by his knee the rest of the way, as he proceeded to lead Minnesota to three scores (two field goals, one touchdown) on the ensuing…read more

Ties career high with four TDs

Darnold completed 17 of 28 passes for 181 yards and four touchdowns in Sunday's 34-7 win over the Texans.

Analysis: The 27-year-old quarterback didn't need to air it out too much in the big win, but Darnold was clinical in the red zone, with all four of his TDs coming from inside the 10-yard line. The four touchdowns tied his career high, matching his performance against Washington from Week 11 of the 2019 season when he was still a Jet. Darnold has an 8:2 TD:INT through three games to lead the Vikings to a 3-0 start, giving him plenty of momentum heading into a Week 4 clash with the Packers.

Leads upset win shorthanded

Darnold completed 17 of 26 passes for 268 yards with two touchdowns and one interception and added five carries for 32 yards in the Vikings' 23-17 win over the 49ers on Sunday. He also committed two fumbles, recovering one.

Analysis: Darnold wasn't quite as efficient as he'd been during a Week 1 win over the Giants in which he misfired on only five pass attempts, but considering he was missing Jordan Addison (ankle) from the onset of the game and then lost Justin Jefferson (quadriceps) late in the third quarter, the veteran signal-caller was effective overall. Well before the latter's exit from the game, however, the duo connected for a 97-yard touchdown pass that served as the highlight of the afternoon, and essentially,…read more

Nearly perfect in team debut

Darnold completed 19 of 24 passes for 208 yards with two touchdowns and one interception in the Vikings' 28-6 win over the Giants on Sunday. He also rushed three times for three yards.

Analysis: Returning to a MetLife Stadium field that was often a proverbial house of horrors for him during a difficult early career stint with the Jets, Darnold looked like a quarterback out for redemption over the course of a stellar Vikings debut. The veteran signal-caller connected with Justin Jefferson (three yards) and Jalen Nailor (21 yards) for his two touchdown passes, and his 12 consecutive completions to open the game tied franchise legend Fran Tarkenton's record in that category. Darnold had…read more

Won't start Saturday

Coach Kevin O'Connell relayed Thursday that that Darnold's teammate Jaren Hall will start Saturday's preseason finale against the Eagles.

Analysis: O'Connell added that Matt Corral is likely to see snaps after Hall on Saturday, with Darnold's next start thus slated to occur Week 1 against the Giants on Sunday, Sept. 8. The veteran QB is slated to open the regular season as Minnesota's top signal-caller, with first-round rookie J.J. McCarthy having landed on IR last week due to a knee injury.

Positioned as starter for 2024

Darnold is poised to start the Vikings' Sept. 8 season opener versus the Giants and could remain atop the depth chart at quarterback for the entire 2024 campaign after 10th overall pick J.J. McCarthy (knee) underwent season-ending meniscus surgery Wednesday, Kevin Seifert of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Darnold will continue dominating first-team reps while Nick Mullens moves up to the No. 2 role. The team may also consider signing another quarterback, but if Darnold is able to competently command the offense, he now has a clear path to a season-long starting gig. While he's mostly struggled throughout his career and has never played more than 13 games in a season, Darnold will have a strong supporting cast at his disposal in Minnesota. Justin Jefferson is arguably the best receiver in the…read more

Locked in as Week 1 starter

Darnold is in line to open the regular season as Minnesota's starting quarterback with J.J. McCarthy (knee) set to undergo surgery to address a meniscus tear, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: The former Jet, Panthers and 49er has already been handling the majority of first-team reps in training camp, and with McCarthy slated to miss anywhere from a few weeks to multiple months depending on what form of surgery he needs, Darnold has a clear path to the starting gig to open the regular season. In his lone preseason series thus far, he completed four of eight pass attempts for 59 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. Given the quality of Darnold's pass-catching corps to begin the…read more

Plays one series in Vikings debut

Darnold started at quarterback but played just one series on offense in Saturday's preseason win over Las Vegas. He was 4-of-8 passing for 59 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions.

Analysis: Darnold essentially led the Vikings on a scoring drive, but his pass to Jalen Nailor on fourth-and-goal fell incomplete. Darnold playing only one series is likely a sign he's the favorite to begin the season as the starting quarterback. Rookie J.J. McCarthy played most of the game after Darnold left and had a strong performance with two touchdown passes, albeit largely against the second- and third-string defense.

Set for Saturday's start

Coach Kevin O'Connell said Thursday that Darnold will start Saturday's preseason game against the Raiders, and that rookie first-round pick J.J. McCarthy will also get "a significant amount of work," Ben Goessling of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Analysis: Darnold is listed atop Minnesota's initial preseason depth chart, and he's taken the majority of first-team reps to this point in training camp, though McCarthy is expected to be increasingly worked in with the starting unit as things progress. As long as he can turn in some solid preseason showings, though, Darnold still seems in solid position to win the starting gig for the Week 1 regular-season opener against the Giants.

Listed atop depth chart

Darnold is listed as the starting quarterback on Minnesota's initial preseason depth chart.

Analysis: The preseason depth charts often don't mean much, but this does line up with what's been reported by Vikings beat writers all summer. The catch is that coach Kevin O'Connell recently said J.J. McCarthy will start getting first-team reps later in August once more of the offense has been installed, at which point the rookie QB could perhaps make a strong enough impression to push Darnold out of the top spot. So far, Darnold has dominated first-team reps, dating back to the offseason program and…read more

Will head to camp as QB1

Darnold will be the first-team quarterback when Minnesota begins training camp in late July, ESPN.com's Kevin Seifert reports.

Analysis: Darnold took all the first-team reps at June minicamp and reportedly looked sharper than 10th overall draft pick J.J. McCarthy. Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said Wednesday that Darnold will remain the top QB for the start of training camp, but O'Connell cautioned that it's one of the many positions at which he anticipates competition later this summer.

Excels at minicamp

Darnold took every first-team rep during mandatory minicamp, with Alec Lewis of The Athletic reporting that the veteran quarterback's "consistency stood out for three days" while J.J. McCarthy missed more throws.

Analysis: Lewis says McCarthy's inconsistency is to be expected and adds that "overarching quarterback observations are largely unimportant at this stage" of the offseason. The rookie will have a chance to win the starting job this summer, so it'll be more of a story if he's still lagging far behind Darnold in early-to-mid August after a few weeks of training camp. Lewis also notes that McCarthy had his best day yet Thursday, the final day of minicamp, perhaps giving him something to build on when the…read more

Vikings won't rush to name starting QB

The Vikings could begin the season with Darnold as the team's starting quarterback despite taking J.J. McCarthy with the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft, ESPN reports. "We're not going to rush his development," said general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. "We're just going to do what's best for the Vikings in the short and long term."

Analysis: Darnold signed a one-year, $10 million contract with the Vikings as a short-term veteran starter or backup. It's hard to handicap when McCarthy may take over the starting job this soon after the draft, but it's notable the Vikings are trying to reduce expectations. Expect the quarterback battle for the Week 1 starting job to commence this summer. Still, odds are Darnold will only be the starter for a few weeks at most if McCarthy is healthy and making progress.

Commits to Vikings

Darnold agreed to terms on a one-year, $10 million contract with the Vikings on Monday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Darnold spent the 2023 campaign as Brock Purdy's backup in San Francisco, but he now will join his former teammate and current Vikings quarterback coach Josh McCown in Minnesota. With Kirk Cousins en route to Atlanta, Darnold becomes the de facto No. 1 option under center with his new team. Darnold completed 16 of 26 passes for 189 yards and one touchdown while adding another 19 yards and a trip to the end zone on seven carries in his only start for the 49ers last season. It remains to be seen…read more

Solid as backup in 2023

Darnold completed 61 percent of his pass attempts for 297 yards, two touchdowns and one interception across 10 games (one start) with San Francisco in 2023.

Analysis: Darnold spent the majority of the campaign backing up MVP candidate Brock Purdy, with the veteran's lone start coming in the last game of the regular season with many starters resting for the playoffs. The third overall pick from the 2018 Draft appeared to be more comfortable under center while playing in head coach Kyle Shanahan's system. Darnold's high draft pedigree and improved polish should produce several suitors for the unrestricted free agent this upcoming offseason.

Scores twice in first start for SF

Darnold completed 16 of 26 pass attempts for 189 yards and a touchdown while rushing seven times for 19 yards and another score in Sunday's 21-20 loss to the Rams. He also lost a fumble.

Analysis: The 49ers decided to rest starting quarterback Brock Purdy along with a handful of other key players Sunday, affording Darnold the opportunity to make his first start as a member of the team. The third overall pick from the 2018 Draft looked more polished and decisive in the pocket, even showing off his arm strength on a couple of deep completions in the face of pressure. That brief showcase will help Darnold's efforts to seek a new contract this offseason as an unrestricted free agent. Until…read more

Starting regular-season finale

Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed Wednesday that Darnold will serve as the 49ers' starting quarterback for Sunday's regular-season finale versus the Rams, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: The 49ers have already clinched the No. 1 seed in the NFC with a 12-4 record, so they will give starting quarterback Brock Purdy a breather before the playoffs. Star running back Christian McCaffrey (calf) has already been ruled out, and it's possible that Darnold won't have Brandon Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel or George Kittle at his disposal either against a Rams team that's also in rest mode prior to the postseason and will start Carson Wentz at quarterback.

Takes over late for injured starter

Darnold completed eight of 14 pass attempts for 81 yards, a touchdown and an interception while adding nine rushing yards on one attempt in Monday's 33-19 loss to the Ravens.

Analysis: Darnold entered the contest well into the second half after Brock Purdy threw four interceptions and then exited with a neck injury. The veteran backup threw his first touchdown pass of the 2023 season -- and also as a member of the 49ers -- to rookie wideout Ronnie Bell in garbage time of Monday's defeat. Initial reports out of San Francisco indicate that Purdy should be good to go against the Commanders in Week 17, which would leave Darnold in his usual role holding a touchscreen on the…read more

Mops up in blowout win

Darnold carried once for minus-one yard while playing four of the 49ers' 59 snaps on offense in Sunday's 42-19 win over the Eagles.

Analysis: Darnold looked like a candidate to get his first extended playing time of the season back in late October while Brock Purdy was in concussion protocol, but Purdy ended up being cleared ahead of the 49ers' Week 8 game against the Bengals and hasn't missed out on any starts ever since. As such, most of Darnold's opportunities are likely to come in mop-up scenarios such as this past Sunday, when he took the field for the 49ers' final possession with 2:07 remaining in the fourth quarter with the…read more

Remains in backup role

Darnold will remain in a backup role for Week 8 after Brock Purdy cleared the five-step concussion protocol ahead of Sunday's game against the Bengals, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Niners head coach Kyle Shanahan announced Wednesday that Purdy entered the protocol in the aftermath of Monday's loss to the Vikings, which seemingly put Darnold in line to draw the Week 8 start against Cincinnati. However, Purdy ended up clearing all five steps of the protocol quicker than anticipated and no longer carries an injury designation into Sunday. As a result, Darnold will stick in his usual No. 2 role in Week 8.

Could get Week 8 start

Darnold may be in line to start Sunday's game against the Bengals after teammate Brock Purdy entered the concussion protocol earlier this week, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: While not officially ruled out, Purdy faces a challenge to clear the five-step protocol on a short week after sustaining the head injury during Monday's loss at Minnesota. Darnold has taken 18 snaps and attempted one pass so far this season, strictly subbing in for Purdy in the late stages of blowout wins. The 26-year-old last served as a starter for Carolina over the final six weeks of last season, a stretch in which he won four games and completed 58.6 percent of his passes for 8.2 yards per…read more

Will play Friday

Darnold will come in after Brock Purdy during Friday's preseason finale against the Chargers, Matt Barrows of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Darnold was officially named the team's No. 2 quarterback Wednesday, so his entrance behind Purdy and ahead of Trey Lance makes sense. It may be more notable that Purdy will be suiting up after he played in Saturday's game against the Broncos and looked sharp. Darnold will look to cement why he was chosen to be the top backup when he takes the field Friday.

Wins backup competition

Darnold was informed Wednesday that he will serve as the 49ers' No. 2 quarterback behind Brock Purdy to open the season, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: After joining the 49ers in free agency this offseason, Darnold will begin the 2023 campaign as the team's top backup over 2021 first-round pick Trey Lance. A first-rounder himself from the 2018 NFL Draft, Darnold is coming off a strong training camp and seems to be a solid fit in head coach Kyle Shanahan's quarterback-friendly offensive system. The announcement puts Darnold firmly on the radar as a stash in deeper fantasy leagues that start multiple signal-caller, and could foreshadow Lance…read more

Gets extended look Saturday

Darnold completed 11 of 14 pass attempts for 109 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Saturday's preseason win over Denver.

Analysis: Darnold entered the game after starter Brock Purdy (elbow) returned from injury and ran San Francisco's opening drive, coming in ahead of Trey Lance as planned. However, Darnold remained in the game after halftime to presumably make up for the drive lost to Purdy. When that drive was shortened by an interception that was no fault of his own, Darnold trotted back out to end his day on a positive note with a touchdown pass. Lance also had a touchdown pass and a pick Saturday, keeping the…read more

Will play first half Saturday

Head coach Kyle Shanahan announced that Darnold will play during the first half ahead of Trey Lance on Saturday, with the latter running the backup offense following halftime against the Broncos, Josh Dubow of the Associated Press reports.

Analysis: Shanahan also hinted at a possible return for starter Brock Purdy (elbow), but he would only play for a drive or two if active before giving way to the veteran backup. The flip in order between Darnold and Trey Lance confirms that the 49ers' coaching staff views this as an honest competition for the backup job. Darnold threw for 84 yards on eight attempts while only playing the third quarter last week, so the team will get a longer look at 2018's third-overall pick against the Broncos on…read more

Plays third quarter Sunday

Darnold completed five of his eight pass attempts for 84 yards with no touchdowns or turnovers while playing the third quarter of Sunday's 34-7 preseason loss to Las Vegas.

Analysis: Darnold started the second half behind Trey Lance as promised by head coach Kyle Shanahan, but he gave the former just one quarter of playing time compared to Lance's full half. Darnold, the veteran of this young QB room, performed well in his brief appearance, firing several crisp passes on a nine-play drive to open the second half that ended with Darnold being stuffed on a sneak attempt on fourth down. With both quarterbacks performing well Sunday, the competition for whom will back up Brock…read more

Playing after Lance on Sunday

Coach Kyle Shanahan told KNBR 680 San Francisco on Friday that Darnold will take most of the second-half reps at quarterback for the 49ers in Sunday's preseason game in Las Vegas.

Analysis: With Brock Purdy slated to sit out Sunday, Trey Lance will handle the majority of those snaps in the first half before handing over the offense to Darnold. Lance and Darnold are vying for the No. 2 QB role in San Francisco, and their respective snaps during exhibition season will be the determining factor in the job battle. Both players are No. 3 overall draft picks -- Darnold in 2018, Lance in 2021 -- so Shanahan is banking on pedigree for his backup signal-caller.

Getting a real shot in San Fran?

Coach Kyle Shanahan said Thursday that Darnold, Brock Purdy (elbow) and Trey Lance are "all capable of being franchise-like quarterbacks," David Lombardi of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Shanahan mentioned Purdy's eight starts last year as an example of "franchise-like" play, also noting that Lance is the "best we've had him right now" (after some injury struggles) while Darnold "hasn't been in the best situations" prior to San Francisco. Comments from both Shanahan and John Lynch hint at Purdy being the favorite to start once he's healthy, but his ongoing rehab from UCL surgery leaves Lance and Darnold to compete for first-team reps this spring/summer, giving both…read more

Heads to 49ers on one-year pact

Darnold and the 49ers agreed to terms on a one-year contract Monday, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

Analysis: The No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft 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 2022, 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.

Poor Week 18 performance

Darnold completed just five of 15 passes for 43 yards and two interceptions in Sunday's 10-7 win over the Saints. He also rushed six times for 32 yards.

Analysis: Darnold struggled mightily in the passing game, averaging 2.87 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 season, completing only 82 of 140 passes for seven touchdowns versus three interceptions. While he…read more

Turnovers sully big numbers

Darnold completed 23 of 37 passes for 341 yards with three touchdowns and one interception in the Panthers' 30-24 loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday. He also rushed five times for 20 yards and committed three fumbles, losing two.

Analysis: 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…read more

Impressive numbers in win

Darnold completed 15 of 22 passes for 250 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions in the Panthers' 37-23 win over the Lions on Saturday. He also rushed six times for 19 yards and another score.

Analysis: Darnold averaged an impressive 11.4 yards per attempt 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…read more

Touchdown toss in loss

Darnold completed 14 of 23 passes for 225 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 24-16 loss to the Steelers.

Analysis: Darnold opened Carolina's scoring by finding top wideout DJ Moore for a five-yard touchdown while on the run. Although he was sacked four times Sunday, Darnold still managed to make a few big plays in the passing game, including two gains of at least 40 yards. Without a turnover in his three appearances this season, Darnold will strive to maintain his clean play in Week 16 versus the Lions.

Throws TD in win

Darnold completed 14 of 24 passes for 120 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 30-24 win over the Seahawks. He also rushed three times for 31 yards.

Analysis: Darnold found Shi Smith for a 13-yard touchdown during the first quarter, but he otherwise struggled to produce much in the passing game. In fact, top wideout DJ Moore finished the game without a single catch. Despite that situation, Darnold salvaged some value as a runner thanks to a team-long gain of 26 yards on the ground. With a road victory to boot, he figures to maintain his starting job going into Week 15's matchup versus the Steelers.

Earns another start after win

Darnold completed 11 of 19 passes for 164 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions in Sunday's 23-10 win over the Broncos. He added three rushes for three yards and a touchdown.

Analysis: The Panthers relied heavily on their run game and asked Darnold to manage the game in his first appearance of the season. He did so effectively, leading an 11-play, 71-yard drive late in the first quarter capped by a five-yard touchdown pass to DJ Moore. Darnold also concluded the Panthers' first drive of the second half with a quarterback sneak on which he recovered his own fumble in the end zone for his rushing touchdown. Though the team has had trouble finding a consistent starter under…read more

Getting chance to start in Week 12

Interim coach Steve Wilks announced Tuesday that Darnold will start Sunday's game against the Broncos, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Analysis: With Darnold swapping in for Baker Mayfield, Carolina will be on its third starting quarterback in as many contests. PJ Walker is currently dealing with a high-ankle sprain, the same injury that caused Darnold himself to spend the first 10 weeks of the season on IR, but he'll now get his chance to direct the offense. In 12 appearances (11 starts) for the Panthers during the 2021 campaign, Darnold completed 60 percent of his passes, averaged 210.6 yards per game and tossed nine touchdowns versus…read more

Could play some this week

Panthers interim head coach Steve Wilks said Wednesday that he would like to give Darnold some snaps in a game before giving him another chance to start, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Baker Mayfield will start Sunday's game in Baltimore, with Darnold serving as the backup and P.J. Walker (ankle) missing the first of what likely will be multiple games. The possibility of Darnold getting some snaps hurts Mayfield's already-limited value, and an in-game benching is in play with any starting quarterback for Carolina this season.

Set for backup role with Walker out

Darnold is expected to back up Baker Mayfield against the Ravens on Sunday, as Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that fellow Panthers quarterback PJ Walker has a high-ankle sprain.

Analysis: Interim coach Steve Wilks has named Mayfield the Week 11 starter, while Darnold should have the opportunity to dress for the first time this season after beginning the campaign on injured reserve due to a high-ankle sprain of his own. Mayfield was benched earlier this season, so he could be on a short leash with Darnold waiting in the wings versus Baltimore.

Inactive Thursday

Darnold is inactive for Thursday's game against the Falcons, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Analysis: Darnold was activated from injured reserve Monday after missing the first nine games of the campaign due to a left high-ankle sprain that he sustained late in the preseason. That said, he'll be a healthy scratch Thursday, while PJ Walker gets the nod under center for Carolina and Baker Mayfield serves as the backup. Considering both Walker and Mayfield have received starts this season, Darnold may not be long for one himself if Walker and Mayfield stumble and interim coach Steve Wilks opts to…read more

Comes off IR

Darnold (ankle) was activated from injured reserve Monday, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Analysis: Now that he's made a full recovery from the left high-ankle sprain he sustained in late August, Darnold will join a Carolina quarterback room that became even more unsettled during Sunday's 42-21 loss to Cincinnati. While making his fourth consecutive start, PJ Walker threw two interceptions and completed just three of 10 pass attempts before being benched at halftime. Baker Mayfield performed reasonably well in relief over the final two quarters, but he completed only 54.9 percent of his…read more

Drawing close to full health

Darnold said Wednesday that he's "close to 100 percent" following the high left-ankle sprain he suffered in the Panthers' preseason finale, Steve Reed of the Associated Press reports.

Analysis: Carolina designated Darnold for return from injured reserve Oct. 19, so the team has until next Tuesday to get him back on the active roster. Still, even if he's available this Sunday at Cincinnati, he won't be an option to start under center.PJ Walker will draw a start for a fourth consecutive contest, with Baker Mayfield serving as his backup. As a result, there's no telling when (or if) Darnold will have a chance to receive in-game reps.

Won't start if activated

Panthers interim head coach Steve Wilks said that PJ Walker will start Sunday's game in Atlanta, regardless of the health of Darnold (ankle) and Baker Mayfield (ankle), Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Darnold hasn't been available for the Panthers' first seven games while recovering from the left ankle sprain he suffered in the team's preseason finale, but he appeared to be a candidate for the starting gig once he was deemed ready to return from injured reserve. The 25-year-old has a week of practice under his belt and could be activated from IR before the Week 8 contest if his ankle responds well to the Panthers' upcoming workouts, but even in that scenario, Darnold won't be available in…read more

Won't play this week

Interim head coach Steve Wilks said Darnold (ankle) looked good in his return to practice Wednesday but won't be activated from injured reserve ahead of Sunday's game against Tampa Bay, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Darnold's return to practice opened a 21-day window to be moved back to the active roster or remain on IR for the rest of the season. It'll almost certainly be the first outcome, and there's even potential for Darnold to make starts soon given that Baker Mayfield has played poorly and now is dealing with an ankle injury. Wilks named PJ Walker as his Week 7 starter and Jacob Eason as the backup quarterback.

Ready to practice

Carolina designated Darnold (ankle) to return from injured reserve Wednesday, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Analysis: Darnold, who suffered an ankle injury during the team's preseason finale on Aug. 26, will take part in practice Wednesday and now has a 21-day window in which the Panthers can evaluate him for a return to the 53-man roster. Whether Darnold has a legitimate chance of being available Week 7 against the Buccaneers has yet to be determined, but the timing of his return to practice is welcome news for the Panthers' banged-up quarterback ranks. Baker Mayfield is still dealing with an ankle injury…read more

Expected to come off IR this week

Interim coach Steve Wilks expects Darnold (ankle) to come off injured reserve and practice this week, though he's unsure if Darnold can get up to speed quickly enough to face the Buccaneers on Sunday, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Analysis: Darnold has been on injured reserve since suffering a high-ankle sprain prior to the season. Once cleared for game action, Darnold could be handed the starting role quickly given the injuries to Baker Mayfield (ankle) and P.J. Walker (neck), which has left Jacob Eason as Carolina's only healthy quarterback.

Could return next week

Darnold (ankle) won't be available for Sunday's game at the Rams but could be activated from injured reserve ahead of the Panthers' Week 7 game against the Buccaneers, Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Analysis: Darnold's status has become a matter of interest with starting quarterback Baker Mayfield struggling from a performance standpoint through the Panthers' first five games and now nursing a high-ankle sprain. The Panthers haven't ruled Mayfield out from playing Week 6, but in the likely scenario that Mayfield sits, P.J. Walker will get the start. Darnold is finishing up his rehab from a high-ankle sprain that was more severe than Mayfield's and has yet to resume practicing.

Not ready for return yet

Darnold (ankle) is still not close to returning from injured reserve, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Darnold is technically already eligible to come off IR, but Schefter reports a source saying it's "going to be a while" before he's healthy enough to retake the field. When Darnold initially suffered a left high-ankle sprain in late August, he was given a recovery timetable of 4-6 weeks. Once back to full health, it's possible he could push for Carolina's starting job again, at least if the quality of Baker Mayfield's play doesn't begin to improve.

Out of walking boot

Darnold (ankle) ditched the walking boot on his left foot as of Thursday, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Darnold suffered a high ankle sprain during the Panthers' preseason finale on Aug. 26 and received a recovery timetable of 4-to-6 weeks at the time of the injury. The team subsequently placed him on IR last Thursday, ruling him out for at least the first four games of the campaign. While Darnold continues his rehab, Baker Mayfield will direct Carolina's offense with P.J. Walker serving as the backup quarterback.

Officially on IR

The Panthers placed Darnold (ankle) on injured reserve Thursday, Darin Gantt of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: Coach Matt Rhule said Darnold will miss "at least four weeks" while recovering from a left high-ankle sprain suffered in last Friday's preseason finale, so his placement on injured reserve was inevitable. The move opens up a roster spot for kicker Eddy Pineiro. Darnold will be eligible to return Week 5 versus the 49ers, at the earliest. For now, Carolina will roll with P.J. Walker as the backup to starter Baker Mayfield.

High ankle sprain confirmed

Coach Matt Rhule described the injury that Darnold suffered in Friday's preseason finale as a "significant" high ankle sprain, David Newton of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Per Rhule, "it is a significant injury that could take some time," while adding that "if it's at least a four-game injury, we can put him on the short-term injured reserve." Given the typical recovery period of high ankle sprains, it's safe to assume that Darnold will miss some regular-season time and if he is indeed placed on IR after roster cut-downs, the Panthers' No. 2 QB would be forced to miss at least four games to begin the upcoming campaign.

Likely out 4-to-6 weeks

Darnold is expected to be out 4-to-6 weeks after reportedly suffering a high-ankle sprain in Friday's preseason contest, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Darnold appeared to have his ankle rolled up on during Friday's preseason game against the Bills, and the 25-year-old, who lost the starting quarterback job to Baker Mayfield earlier in the week, came away from the injury with a high-ankle sprain. With Matt Corral (foot) also sidelined for an extended period of time, P.J. Walker is expected to back up Mayfield for however long Darnold is out.

May have high-ankle sprain

Darnold likely suffered a high left ankle sprain during Friday's preseason game versus the Bills, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The diagnosis follows an initial examination of Darnold's left ankle, which rolled to the inside as he was taken to the turf by a Buffalo defender in the third quarter. He already had lost the Panthers' quarterback competition to Baker Mayfield this week, and Darnold's prospects to be the No. 2 signal-caller Week 1 now have taken a hit. Darnold will undergo an MRI on Saturday to learn the severity of the injury and whether or not there's additional damage in the region, but coach Matt Rhule…read more

Gets ruled out with ankle injury

Darnold won't return to Friday's preseason game against the Bills due to a left ankle injury, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Analysis: In the same week in which he lost Carolina's quarterback battle to Baker Mayfield, Darnold now may be in danger of missing the start of the coming campaign after having his left ankle roll to the inside as he was taken to the ground by a Buffalo defender in the third quarter. Darnold required a cart to go to the locker room, while P.J. Walker replaced him on the team's next possession. With rookie third-rounder Matt Corral (foot) out for the season, Walker is the only healthy signal-caller on…read more

Leaves Friday's game

Darnold needed a cart to go to the locker room after suffering an apparent left ankle injury during Friday's preseason contest versus the Bills, Schuyler Callihan of SI.com reports.

Analysis: While throwing an incompletion, Darnold's left ankle rolled to the inside as he was taken the ground by a Bills defender. He attempted to get to his feet but was unable to put any weight on his left leg, and after trainers checked him out he went to the locker room. In a week in which he lost the Panthers' quarterback battle to Baker Mayfield, Darnold now is in danger of beginning the upcoming season in street clothes instead of in uniform and at the ready if called upon by coach Matt Rhule.…read more

Loses job battle to Mayfield

The Panthers have chosen Baker Mayfield over Darnold as their Week 1 starting quarterback, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: The expected outcome was finalized Monday morning, resigning Darnold to a backup role in which his playing time will depend on Mayfield's health and performance. The battle played out on the practice field this summer, with Darnold attempting only three passes through the first two games of the preseason.

Decision on QB delayed

Coach Matt Rhule wasn't ready to announce the Panthers' starting quarterback between Darnold and Baker Mayfield for Week 1 after Friday's preseason loss in New England, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: There was a belief Rhule would make a decision after the Panthers' second exhibition, but that may have gone out the window when both Mayfield and Darnold were kept out of the game. Rhule's comments imply as much, meaning he likely wants to see another week of prep before deploying the signal-callers next Friday against the Bills.

Not starting Friday

Neither Darnold nor Baker Mayfield is expected to start Friday's preseason game against New England, with the Panthers resting most of their key players and giving P.J. Walker the start at quarterback, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: This reports suggests Darnold and Mayfield are still battling for the QB job, while Jeff Howe of The Athletic recently reported that Mayfield will be named the starter "when the team is ready to make the announcement." Either way, there's not much doubt Mayfield is the favorite, and Darnold won't have a chance to gain ground Friday night. He does still have practices to make an impression, and he could see action in the third and final preseason game next week.

Limited work in preseason contest

Darnold completed two of three passes for 16 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's 23-21 preseason victory over the Commanders.

Analysis: Darnold played on Carolina's second and third offensive possessions. The former began deep in Washington territory after an Antonio Gibson fumble, which Darnold capped with an eight-yard touchdown pass to Rashard Higgins. Darnold appears to be slightly behind Baker Mayfield in the competition to be the Panthers' starting quarterback in Week 1, but after the game coach Matt Rhule said that no decision has been made to this point, per Schuyler Callihan of SI.com.

To see about one series Saturday

Coach Matt Rhule said Thursday that Darnold and Baker Mayfield will each play roughly one series apiece during Saturday's preseason game at Washington, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Analysis: Darnold and Mayfield are in the midst of a quarterback competition, with the latter seeming to take on more of the first-team reps as training camp went on. That said, Rhule didn't announce who will start Saturday, only noting both players will earn 8-to-10 plays. The Panthers aren't expected to name a Week 1 starter between the two until after their second exhibition Friday, Aug. 19 at New England, at the earliest.

Not being shopped

Darnold was notified Monday by general manager Scott Fitterer that he's not being shopped in trade discussions, Ellis Williams of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Analysis: Darnold has been subject to trade speculation since the Panthers acquired fellow quarterback Baker Mayfield this offseason. While only one of the signal-callers will earn Carolina's starting job, with Mayfield reportedly emerging as the favorite early on, Darnold was told by Fitterer not to worry about recent chatter regarding a trade. With that assurance, Darnold will try to put his best foot forward in Saturday's preseason opener versus the Commanders.

Keeping pace in QB competition

Darnold has been more consistent than Baker Mayfield over the first few days of Carolina's training camp, Darin Gantt of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: Gantt points out that Darnold likely has benefited from having more time in the team's system than Mayfield, who was acquired via trade in July. Mayfield thus far has shown more upside but less consistency. While Mayfield is the consensus favorite to win Carolina's quarterback competition, Darnold won't make it easy to do so.

Set to compete with Mayfield

Darnold is now in line to compete with Baker Mayfield -- who was acquired by Carolina on Wednesday -- for the team's starting quarterback job, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Analysis: The competition will feature the top two quarterbacks selected in the 2018 NFL Draft, as Darnold was chosen by the Jets with the No. 3 overall pick, while the Browns grabbed Mayfield with the top overall pick. While nothing will be handed to Mayfield, it stands to reason that the Panthers wouldn't have acquired him had Darnold been viewed as the team's clear-cut answer under center. The 25-year-old Darnold is coming off an uneven 2021 campaign -- his first with Carolina -- in which he logged…read more

Has competition from Corral

Darnold remains the Panthers' starting quarterback for now, but rookie third-rounder Matt Corral could get an opportunity to play early in his career if Darnold struggles this season, ESPN's David Newton reports.

Analysis: Darnold has not performed up to expectations since entering the league as the second pick four years ago. Even with his change of scenery joining the Panthers last season, Darnold completed under 60 percent of his passes for just nine touchdowns versus 13 interceptions in 12 games. He also lost a pair of fumbles. Although Carolina opting not to trade for Baker Mayfield signals some patience with their quarterback situation, Darnold now has Corral to watch in his rear-view mirror as he…read more

Still viewed as starter

Panthers offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo said he views Darnold as his starting quarterback, though McAdoo also added, "that is something I shouldn't have said," per David Newton of ESPN.com.

Analysis: The Panthers missed out on Deshaun Watson and Russell Wilson, but they could still make a move for Baker Mayfield or Jimmy Garoppolo, or else bring in an early draft pick to challenge Darnold. Ahead of the 2022 NFL Draft, it's only Darnold and P.J. Walker in the Carolina quarterback room for the start of the offseason program. Darnold has a guaranteed $18.9 million salary for 2022, the fifth and final year of his rookie contract.

In the lead for top QB job

GM Scott Fitterer noted Friday that Darnold is currently "in the lead" for the Panthers' starting QB job, ESPN's David Newton reports.

Analysis: That said, less than a month ago Fitterer suggested that the job was "open,'' but at this stage P.J. Walker is the only other signal-caller on Carolina's roster. With that in mind, Fitterer indicated that the team intends to "add a lot of competition to (the QB) room" while adding he still hopes that Darnold can take the opportunity and run with it. It remains be seen if the Panthers bring in a veteran to compete with Darnold, elect to use a premium draft pick on a young QB, or both, but in the…read more

Turns it over twice

Darnold completed 29 of 42 passes for 219 yards, two touchdowns and an interception in Sunday's 41-17 loss to the Buccaneers. He also rushed eight times for 19 yards and lost a fumble.

Analysis: Darnold threw his first touchdown pass since Week 6 by finding tailback Chuba Hubbard for a two-yard score to cap Carolina's opening drive. While he'd later add to his tally with an impressive 19-yard touchdown to Robby Anderson on a fourth-down play during the fourth quarter, Darnold subsequently coughed the ball up and was picked off. After a rough start to his career with the Jets, the 24-year-old's first season with the Panthers was also marred by turnovers, as Darnold was intercepted 13…read more

Expected to start in Week 18

Coach Matt Rhule said Monday that he expects Darnold to start Sunday against the Buccaneers, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Darnold started in Sunday's Week 17 loss to the Saints and completed 17 of 26 passes for 132 yards and an interception. Rhule said that Cam Newton once again will be available after playing one offensive snap against New Orleans, and the 32-year-old's most likely path toward playing time is through red-zone duties. However, Darnold should be in line to handle the majority of the snaps.

Turns it over twice

Darnold completed 17 of 26 passes for 132 yards and an interception in Sunday's 18-10 loss to the Saints. He also was sacked seven times and lost a fumble.

Analysis: Darnold led the Panthers to points on their first two drives, but his performance went downhill from there. The signal-caller was stripped deep in his own territory on Carolina's third offensive series, then took plenty more hits while struggling to move the ball beyond underneath completions. When trying to tie the game late, Darnold was intercepted on his final pass, capping another underwhelming showing. While it's encouraging that Darnold made way for Cam Newton for only one offensive snap…read more

Named as Week 17 starter

Panthers head coach Matt Rhule said Darnold will start Sunday's game against the Saints, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Rhule wouldn't comment on his plans for Week 18 in Tampa Bay, merely saying that Darnold will gather the Week 17 start. Cam Newton may still get snaps, especially near the goal line, and the New Orleans defense hardly makes for a favorable matchup. Darnold struggled after replacing Newton in last week's loss to Tampa, completing 15 of 32 passes for 190 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions.

Sees more action than Newton

Darnold (shoulder) completed 15 of 32 passes for 190 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions in the Panthers' 32-6 loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday. He also rushed once for 11 yards and fumbled once but recovered.

Analysis: The embattled signal-caller saw his first action since Week 9 and ended up outpacing starter Cam Newton by 19 pass attempts overall. Coach Matt Rhule had indicated Darnold would see a fair share of snaps over the final three games, but his workload Sunday arguably exceeded initial projections for his Week 16 return. Neither Darnold nor Newton did anything to distinguish themselves in the ugly loss, however, and David Newton of ESPN.com reports that Rhule was non-committal following the game…read more

Could reclaim starting job Week 17

Darnold (shoulder) is expected to enter Sunday's game against the Buccaneers within a few series in relief of Cam Newton, and he could supplant Newton as the team's starting quarterback for the final two contests of the season, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: After heading to injured reserve in early November with an incomplete fracture of his right shoulder, Darnold returned to practice this week and was officially activated Saturday. Though he started in each of Carolina's first nine games, Darnold will be eased back into the mix with a light role behind Newton, who has gone 0-4 through his first four turns as the Panthers' starter. Given that the 32-year-old Newton is on an expiring deal and hasn't made a strong case to be part of Carolina's…read more

Off injured reserve

The Panthers activated Darnold (shoulder) from injured reserve Saturday, Darin Gantt of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: As expected, Darnold is back on the active roster after participating in practice the past two weeks. In his first game action since Week 9, he's slated to back up Cam Newton, but Darnold will be a candidate to get snaps at some point, whether it's Sunday against the Buccaneers and/or in the Panthers' final two games of the campaign after that.

Should get snaps off bench

Carolina head coach Matt Rhule said Darnold (shoulder) will get playing time Sunday against Tampa Bay, even though Cam Newton will retain the starting job and receive the bulk of the snaps, Schuyler Callihan of SI.com reports.

Analysis: Darnold remains on injured reserve, but he looks like he'll be activated this week after he returned to practice Monday and was then cleared for contact following an MRI and CT scan Tuesday. The 24-year-old quarterback could be set up to reclaim the starting job Week 17 or 18, though he won't exactly be positioned for success as the Panthers close out their season with two games against the Bucs and one against the Saints. It's been a struggle for the Carolina offense since September,…read more

Cleared for contact

Darnold (shoulder) has been cleared Monday to resume taking contact reps, Jonathan M. Alexander of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Analysis: Coach Matt Rhule said Monday that he won't make a decision about a Week 16 starter until evaluating Darnold at practice, a hint that the signal-caller could be nearing a recovery from his right shoulder injury. Rhule also noted that he'd like to get Darnold more opportunities on the field this season, per David Newton of ESPN.com, perhaps lending credence to the idea that the 2018 first-round pick would reclaim the starting job were he to return to full health. For the time being, Darnold…read more

Needs another week or two

Darnold (shoulder) is likely still a week or two away from being ready for games, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Darnold returned to practice Wednesday after being designated to return from injured reserve, but head coach Matt Rhule said the quarterback "can't really practice yet" since he hasn't been cleared to take contact, according to Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site. That likely means Darnold isn't able to do much throwing either, which leaves the Panthers with Cam Newton and P.J. Walker as the options at quarterback for at least another week or two. Of course, there's no guarantee of…read more

Cleared to practice

The Panthers designated Darnold (shoulder) for return from injured reserve Wednesday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Darnold is working his way back from a partial non-displaced fracture of his right scapula that resulted in him being placed on IR on Nov. 12. Though initial reports suggested that Darnold wouldn't play again in 2021 even though his injury wasn't considered season-ending, Carolina may be more inclined to add the 2018 first-round pick back on the roster at some point, given that neither Cam Newton nor P.J. Walker has performed at high level over the team's past four games. Carolina will have a…read more

Late return still possible

Coach Matt Rhule said Monday that it's a "possibility" Darnold (shoulder) returns down the stretch, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Rhule also noted that Darnold still is a few weeks away from being fully recovered, per David Newton of ESPN.com, so it appears that his earliest possible chance to come off IR might be Week 16. Cam Newton has proven to be mistake prone and struggled to move Carolina's offense through the air since his reunion with the team, and David Newton reports that he and P.J. Walker may split reps under center going forward. As a result, Rhule still has real motivation to explore other possibilities at…read more

Evaluation coming after bye

Coach Matt Rhule said Monday that Darnold (shoulder) has resumed throwing "some" and will be further evaluated after the Panthers' Week 13 bye, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: It was previously reported that the Panthers intend to proceed as if Darnold wouldn't be available again this season, even though the recovery timetable for the partial non-displaced fracture of his right scapula could allow him to return around Week 16. That was before replacement Cam Newton's disastrous performance and subsequent benching during Sunday's loss to the Dolphins, however. With a 5-7-0 record and four divisional matchups remaining, Carolina is still in contention for a playoff…read more

Likely done for 2021

The Panthers are proceeding as though Darnold (shoulder) won't play again this season, even though his rehab from a partial non-displaced fracture of his right scapula entails only a 4-to-6-week recovery timeline, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Even if Darnold's recovery trends toward the longer end of that timeline, he would still have a shot at playing in Weeks 16 through 18, but Carolina appears to be closing the door on him making a late-season return from injured reserve. Even before he was diagnosed with the shoulder injury, Darnold's standing atop the depth chart was shaky, as he completed only 59.5 percent of his passes for 6.5 yards per attempt and a 7:11 TD:INT through nine games. P.J. Walker will pick up the start under…read more

Moves to injured reserve

The Panthers placed Darnold (shoulder) on injured reserve Friday.

Analysis: Darnold is expected to be sidelined for the next 4-to-6 weeks with a partial non-displaced fracture of his right scapula, so it was only a matter of time before he landed on injured reserve. P.J. Walker is poised to take over at quarterback for the Panthers on Sunday in Arizona, but Cam Newton inked a $6 million deal Thursday and is set to handle starting duties once he's settled in with more practice reps.

Out at least four weeks

Darnold is expected to be out at least four weeks after he was diagnosed Tuesday with a partial non-displaced fracture of his right scapula, Steve Reed of the Associated Press reports.

Analysis: Head coach Matt Rhule relayed the news Wednesday, and while the Panthers haven't yet placed Darnold on injured reserve, the transaction will likely be made official by the end of the week. In Darnold's stead, Carolina will turn to P.J. Walker under center. Behind Walker, Matt Barkley also is on the active roster after Carolina signed him off Tennessee's practice squad Tuesday.

Dealing with scapula fracture

Darnold was diagnosed with a partial non-displaced fracture of his right scapula Tuesday and could be sidelined for multiple weeks, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: The Panthers labeled Darnold day-to-day after he underwent an MRI on Monday, but his injury is apparently more significant than that. It's believed he sustained the fracture during the second quarter of Sunday's loss to the Patriots, though he still played every offensive snap in the contest. P.J. Walker is poised to step into the starting role for Carolina, while Matt Barkley was signed off Tennessee's practice squad to provide another option at quarterback.

Considered day-to-day after MRI

The Panthers view Darnold as day-to-day after he underwent an MRI on his right shoulder Monday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The same injury rendered Darnold a game-day decision heading into Sunday's matchup with the Patriots, but the Carolina coaching and training staff felt comfortable enough with the quarterback's health coming out of a pregame workout to clear him to start. Darnold proceeded to deliver another rotten performance in the Panthers' 24-6 loss, completing just 16 of 33 passes for 172 yards, no touchdowns and three interceptions, with two of the picks being a result of poorly thrown balls. Head coach…read more

Getting MRI on shoulder

Coach Matt Rhule said Monday that Darnold (shoulder) will receive an MRI, Andrew Siciliano of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Darnold's status for Week 10 currently looks uncertain, as Steve Reed of the Associated Press reports that Rhule intends to wait until Wednesday to make a decision about who will start versus Arizona. If Darnold can't go, P.J. Walker will stand to slot into the starting lineup. Versus the Patriots in Week 9, Darnold threw three interceptions without a touchdown.

Horrible versus Patriots

Darnold completed 16 of 33 passes for 172 yards and three interceptions in Sunday's 24-6 loss to the Patriots.

Analysis: Darnold cleared concussion and shoulder concerns during the week to face a familiar foe in the Patriots, but he was again haunted by their defense. After managing merely 32 passing yards in the first half, Darnold threw an interception that was returned 88 yards for a touchdown in the third quarter. That spoiled Carolina's attempt to potentially tie the game, then Darnold threw another pick on his next drive, setting up a New England field goal. To make matters worse, he was also intercepted on…read more

Confirmed for Week 9 start

Darnold (shoulder) has been confirmed as the Panthers' starting quarterback for Sunday's game against the Patriots, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: The Panthers' decision not to add a third quarterback to the roster this week hinted that Darnold would be available in at least a backup capacity while he managed a right shoulder injury, but the team wanted to see how he fared in a pregame warmup before deciding whether he or P.J. Walker would pick up the start. Person's report suggests that Darnold checked out fine during his pregame work, clearing the way for the 24-year-old signal-caller to make his ninth start of the season. Unless his…read more

Playing Sunday

Darnold (shoulder) is active for Sunday's game versus the Patriots, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Analysis: After clearing the concussion protocol Saturday, Darnold remained questionable to play Week 9 due to a right shoulder injury suffered on the same play in which he was knocked out of the game last Sunday in Atlanta. He proceeded to take part in pregame warmups this Sunday, and it was enough for him to gain clearance from the Panthers' medical and training staffs. Darnold thus will take on New England's 14th-ranked pass defense (240.1 yards per game), and he'll have Christian McCaffrey…read more

Looks in line for start

Darnold (shoulder), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Patriots, is expected to start, barring any setbacks in pregame warmups, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Darnold cleared the NFL's five-step concussion protocol Saturday, but the Panthers still want to ensure the right shoulder injury he picked up in the Week 8 win over the Falcons isn't hindering him in warmups before clearing him to start. Per David Newton of ESPN.com, the Panthers still have some concern about Darnold's ability to throw the deep ball, so even if he draws the start, it's possible that the coaching staff could scale back some of his pass catchers' downfield routes. P.J. Walker…read more

Likely to be active, may not start

Darnold (shoulder) remains questionable and is viewed as a game-time call ahead of Sunday's game against the Patriots, but the Panthers are optimistic that he'll be available to serve as a backup even if he's not cleared to start, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Darnold was listed with a concussion and the right shoulder injury on the Panthers' initial Week 9 report, but the latter issue is his only concern at this juncture after he cleared the NFL's five-step protocol for head injuries Saturday. That said, Darnold never advanced beyond limited participation in practice this week, so the Panthers will want to see how his shoulder checks out in pregame warmups before a decision on his status is made leading up to the 1 p.m. ET kickoff. The fact that…read more

Cleared from concussion, still iffy

Darnold cleared the NFL's concussion protocol Saturday but remains listed as questionable and is viewed as a game-time decision for Sunday's game against the Patriots while he tends to a right shoulder sprain, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Analysis: Though the concussion seemed to the greater obstacle for Darnold to overcome heading into Week 9 action, the right shoulder injury he suffered in the fourth quarter of last week's win over the Falcons is apparently still bothering him. Fortunately for those considering Darnold in Week 9 lineups, the Panthers kick off among the early wave of games at 1 p.m. ET, so clarity on his status one way or the other should arrive when Carolina releases its inactive list 90 minutes prior to kickoff. If…read more

Officially questionable for Week 9

Darnold (concussion/shoulder) was a limited participant in Friday's walk-through practice and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Patriots, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Analysis: After suffering the head and right shoulder injuries in the Panthers' Week 8 win over the Falcons, Darnold appeared on the Week 9 practice report as a limited participant Wednesday through Friday. The concussion seems to be the greater concern of the two injuries at this juncture, as head coach Matt Rhule noted that the quarterback still needs to clear the NFL's five-step protocol in order to suit up Sunday, per Joe Person of The Athletic. If Darnold gets the green light from an independent…read more

Stays limited Thursday

Darnold (concussion/right shoulder) was limited at Thursday's practice, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Analysis: This marks Darnold's second consecutive capped session on the heels of suffering a concussion and hurting his right shoulder Week 8 in Atlanta. The duel injuries didn't allow him to return to that contest, and he merely stood with the coaching staff during the media-access portion of practice Thursday. Darnold still seems to have multiple steps remaining to gain clearance from the concussion protocol and be able to play Sunday against the Patriots. In the event he can't go this weekend, Darnold…read more

Logs limited practice Wednesday

Darnold, who is in the concussion protocol and tending to a right shoulder injury, practiced in a limited fashion Wednesday.

Analysis: Darnold was knocked out of the Panthers' 19-13 win in Atlanta this past Sunday after taking a hit to his upper right arm in the fourth quarter. He subsequently was diagnosed with a concussion, and head coach Matt Rhule termed Darnold "extremely limited" Wednesday, per Steve Reed of the Associated Press. Darnold must clear league protocols in order to suit up Sunday against the Patriots, but if he's unable to go, P.J. Walker -- who took all the first-team reps in Wednesday's session -- will be…read more

Picks up concussion

Darnold sustained a concussion during the fourth quarter of Sunday's game in Atlanta, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Analysis: Darnold took a hit to his upper right arm at the end of an eight-yard run and was slow to get up. He eventually made his way to the locker room, where he was diagnosed with a head injury. Now subject to NFL protocols to be able to return, Darnold will have exactly one week to pass all five phases and make himself available to the Panthers offense. In the meantime, though, P.J. Walker will take over for Darnold under center. Prior to exiting Sunday's contest, Darnold completed 13 of 24 passes…read more

Still starter despite benching

Darnold completed 16 of 25 passes for 111 yards, no touchdowns and one interception in Sunday's 25-3 loss to the Giants.

Analysis: Darnold continued his run of miserable play and was benched to begin the fourth quarter. Prior to being replaced, he averaged only 4.4 yards per attempt and threw an interception for the fourth consecutive contest. After the game, coach Matt Rhule said that Darnold will remain the team's quarterback moving forward and that he was pulled only to try to provide a spark to the offense, according to Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site. Even if the team sticks with Darnold, he is a…read more

Struggles in losing effort

Darnold completed 17 of 41 pass attempts for 207 yards, a touchdown and an interception while adding 48 yards on four rush attempts in Sunday's 34-28 loss to the Vikings.

Analysis: Darnold struggled with his accuracy throughout the entire contest, so it was a surprise the Panthers were able to send this game into overtime given how poor his stat line looked. The opposing quarterback, Kirk Cousins, turned in one of his best performances this season, so Darnold's struggles can't even be attributed to harsh weather conditions. The 2018 first-round pick has hit a rough two-game patch -- during which has completed only 49 percent of his pass attempts -- after it looked like he…read more

Throws three INTs in loss

Darnold completed 21 of 37 passes for 177 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions in Sunday's 21-18 loss to the Eagles.

Analysis: Darnold's worst performance as a Panther saw him throw a trio of bad interceptions. His first two were picked off by Darius Slay while targeting DJ Moore, then Darnold put it behind Robby Anderson for his back-breaking final interception as Carolina was attempting to come back late in the fourth quarter. Although he did manage a five-yard touchdown to Tommy Tremble in the first half, Sunday still marked an awful outing for Darnold, who had completed at least 65 percent of his passes and…read more

Four total touchdowns

Darnold competed 26 of 39 pass attempts for 301 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions in Sunday's Week 4 loss to the Cowboys. He added six rushes for 35 yards and an additional two scores.

Analysis: Darnold continues to post better efficiency than he ever had in his tenure with the Jets. However, he did turn the ball over multiple times -- the first time he has done so this season -- which is something that plagued him in New York. Despite some drawbacks to his performance, Darnold did connect for long passes of 55, 39 and 29 yards, and he continues to show particular rapport with DJ Moore. Darnold has now logged multiple scores when combining passing and rushing in all four games this…read more

Scores twice on ground

Darnold completed 23 of 34 passes for 304 yards in Thursday night's 24-9 win over the Texans. He also rushed eight times for 11 yards and two touchdowns.

Analysis: Darnold found wideout DJ Moore early and often, setting up his untouched score on a five-yard keeper in the first quarter. The signal-caller then was forced to cope with Christian McCaffrey (hamstring) exiting the contest, stalling the offense a bit while he faced more pressure. Although Darnold fumbled twice while being sacked, Carolina fortunately recovered both times, and Darnold rallied to put together a strong second half that included a few big throws under duress. In the end, he was…read more

Sharp in win over Saints

Darnold completed 26 of 38 passes for 305 yards and two touchdowns with one interception in Sunday's 26-7 win over the Saints.

Analysis: He also picked up seven rushing yards on his lone carry. Darnold's second game in a Panthers uniform went even better than his first, as he picked apart a New Orleans defense that just shut down Aaron Rodgers in its opener. Both Darnold's TDs came in the first two quarters, as he found Brandon Zylstra and DJ Moore on red-zone strikes and then didn't need to air things out after halftime. The former Jets quarterback is in good shape to make it three wins, and three productive games, in a row…read more

Hot start in team debut

Darnold completed 24 of 35 passes for 279 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 19-14 win over the Jets. He added a rushing touchdown but finished with minus-1 rushing yard on five attempts and a lost fumble.

Analysis: Darnold delivered a tremendous first-half performance against the team that traded him away in the offseason. He set a new first-half career high with 234 passing yards, including a 57-yard deep ball for a touchdown to former Jets teammate Robby Anderson, and Darnold added a five-yard rushing score for good measure to take a 16-0 lead into the halftime break. Carolina's offense stalled after intermission, but the Panthers were able to hold on and start the Darnold era with a win. They'll remain…read more

Engineers three scoring drives

Darnold completed 19 of his 25 pass attempts for 162 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions in Friday's preseason game against the Steelers.

Analysis: As can be implied from his production, Darnold played for a significant amount of time in the team's preseason finale. He and the offense didn't have much success early on, but ultimately, Darnold managed a pair of touchdown passes that came from 13 and eight yards away. All told, Darnold led six offensive drives and played the entirety of the first half. After this lengthy warmup, Darnold should now be ready for a Week 1 matchup against his former team.

In line to play Friday

Darnold is expected to play a half, or perhaps less if things are going well, in Friday's preseason finale against the Steelers, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Newton notes that the plan applies to Carolina's healthy first-teamers, minus Christian McCaffrey. Thus far, Darnold's preseason activity has been limited to one series last weekend against the Ravens.

Brief showing Saturday

Darnold completed one of two passes for 16 yards in Saturday's preseason game against Baltimore.

Analysis: Darnold's completion was to his former Jets teammate Robby Anderson, whose appearance hopefully marked an end to the hamstring issue that kept the wideout out of training camp recently. Darnold goes into the regular season with an uncertain projection in Carolina, but with Anderson, DJ Moore and Terrace Marshall at receiver he'll have his best playing situation to this point in his NFL career.

Likely playing against Ravens

Coach Matt Rhule said Thursday that he's "leaning towards" giving Darnold a small amount of playing time in Saturday's preseason game against Baltimore, Alaina Getzenberg of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Analysis: Rhule said he'll play several starters, likely including Darnold, though the coach wasn't willing to commit to anything, and did suggest it might be for only a drive or two. It makes sense to give the No. 2 overall pick at least a little bit of work this preseason, given that his team, coaching staff and pass catchers (besides Robby Anderson) are all new to him. If Darnold does play Saturday, he may not have Anderson (hamstring) or DJ Moore (back) at his disposal. Darnold didn't play in…read more

Debut with Carolina delayed

Coach Matt Rhule said Darnold won't suit up for Sunday's preseason game at Indianapolis, Alaina Getzenberg of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Analysis: Darnold will have to wait to get his first taste of in-game action until Saturday, Aug. 21 against the Ravens, at the earliest. Rhule specifically mentioned "most of the starters" will join Darnold on the sideline this weekend, which likely means Christian McCaffrey, Robby Anderson and DJ Moore will log DNPs as well.

Contract option picked up

The Panthers have picked up Darnold's fifth-year contract option, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Per the report, the decision to do so guarantees Darnold $18.9 million in 2022, keeping him under team control for the next two seasons. Darnold, who the Panthers obtained from the Jets earlier this month in exchange for second-, fourth- and sixth-round draft picks, thus appears locked in as the team's franchise signal-caller for the foreseeable future. That's a notion solidified by the team having dealt Teddy Bridgewater to Denver on Wednesday and then passing on taking a QB with the eighth…read more

Dealt to Carolina

The Jets traded Darnold to the Panthers on Monday in exchange for a 2021 sixth-round pick and 2022 second-round and fourth-round picks.

Analysis: The Jets ended up coming away with a strong haul for Darnold, who wasn't expected to be in the team's plans for 2021 with the likelihood of New York selecting a quarterback with the No. 2 overall pick in the upcoming draft. As for the Panthers, a Teddy Bridgewater trade could be on deck, as Carolina plans to exercise the fifth-year option on Darnold's rookie contract, according to Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports. Darnold thus looks positioned to enter 2021 as Carolina's starter, and though he…read more

Team fielding trade offers

Jets general manager Joe Douglas said Wednesday he will "answer the call" when trade offers come in for Darnold, Connor Hughes of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Douglas also said that his stance on Darnold "hasn't changed," adding that he has "no doubt" about the young signal-caller eventually achieving his "outstanding potential." The Jets have previously indicated that the team wouldn't be making a move at quarterback until evaluations of April's draft class had been fully completed, so Douglas' admission that the team will listen to trade offers for Darnold represents a significant change in tone. Rich Cimini of ESPN.com relays that Douglas still…read more

Jets still evaluating options

The Jets intend to fully evaluate the 2021 NFL Draft's quarterback prospects before making a decision about Darnold's future with the team, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Rapoport notes that the Jets have gotten "real interest" about dealing Darnold, who the team selected No. 3 overall back in the 2018 NFL Draft, but that any deal will have to wait until after top prospects have completed their Pro Days and subsequent interviews. Ralph Vacchiano of SportsNet New York recently estimated that Darnold could return value around the range of a "second-round pick, plus maybe another mid-to-late rounder" should the Jets indeed decide to deal him, with potential suitors…read more

Picked twice in season finale

Darnold completed 23 of 34 passes for 266 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in Sunday's 28-14 loss to the Patriots. He added three yards on one rushing attempt.

Analysis: After struggling to move the football for most of the first half, Darnold tied the score at seven apiece with a 21-yard touchdown to Chris Herndon 1:40 before halftime. He was picked off with the game tied at 14 apiece in the third quarter and threw a crucial interception in the end zone to end New York's chances of coming back in the fourth. This pedestrian performance remarkably marked a season high in passing yards for Darnold, who finishes his third NFL season with 2,208 yards and an ugly…read more

Turnover-free in second straight W

Darnold completed 16 of 32 passes for 175 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 23-16 win over the Browns. He added 20 yards on seven rushing attempts.

Analysis: After throwing a key block on a 44-yard Jamison Crowder passing touchdown to Braxton Berrios in the first quarter, Darnold tossed a touchdown pass of his own from 11 yards out to Chris Herndon in the second. The third-year quarterback added a 30-yard touchdown to Crowder to take a 20-3 lead in the third, and the Jets were able to hang on from there. Darnold's TD:INT is still a dreadful 8:9 and he hasn't thrown for more than 230 yards in a game this year, but he has now gone three consecutive…read more

Shocks Rams for first win of 2020

Darnold completed 22 of 31 passes for 207 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 23-20 upset of the Rams. He added 18 rushing yards on five carries.

Analysis: The former USC Trojan put together a workmanlike performance in his return to Los Angeles, but Darnold avoided making mistakes against a tough Rams defense and did just enough to get the Jets their first win of the season -- and hurt the team's chances of being able to draft Trevor Lawrence to replace him in the process. It was the first time Darnold had topped 200 passing yards since Week 4, giving him some glimmer of momentum heading into Week 16's home tilt against the Browns.

Sleepy performance in Seattle

Darnold completed 14 of 26 passes for 132 yards in Sunday's 40-3 loss to the Seahawks.

Analysis: While the quarterback didn't commit any turnovers, there were no other positives to take away from this performance for Darnold or for the Jets offense as a whole. It's the fifth straight start in which he's failed to throw for at least 200 yards, and Darnold's fantasy outlook doesn't figure to improve in Week 15 on the road against the Rams.

Three total TDs in heartbreaking L

Darnold completed 14 of 23 passes for 186 yards, two touchdowns and an interception in Sunday's 31-28 loss to the Raiders. He added three carries for 26 yards and a touchdown, lost two fumbles and threw a two-point conversion.

Analysis: Darnold threw a pair of first-half touchdowns to Jamison Crowder but also turned it over three times, with an interception and two fumbles. He took better care of the ball in the second half and pulled New York within three with a physical four-yard rushing touchdown followed by a two-point conversion to Denzel Mims. His first attempt at the two-point try was intercepted, but Darnold made the most of a second chance provided by a flag on the defense. Ty Johnson's one-yard rushing score on the…read more

Struggles in return

Darnold (shoulder) completed 16 of 27 passes for 197 yards and two interceptions while adding nine yards on two rushing attempts in Sunday's 20-3 loss to the Dolphins.

Analysis: Darnold came out hot in his first action since Week 8, hitting all three of his passes for 60 yards on the opening drive, but New York had to settle for a field goal after a third-down sack. He cooled down from there, as a missed chip-shot field goal and a turnover on downs deep in Miami territory were all the Jets could muster the rest of the way. Darnold has been outplayed by backup Joe Flacco this season -- the third-year quarterback has a dreadful 3:8 TD:INT in seven appearances heading…read more

To end two-game absence Sunday

Darnold (right shoulder) has been cleared to start Sunday versus the Dolphins, Rich Cimini of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: After capping the week with back-to-back full listings on the injury report, Darnold is ready to suit up for the first time since Week 8. In six appearances this season, he's managed to surpass 200 yards twice, but Miami only boasts a mid-tier pass defense (20th, 246.4 yards per game). Having said that, Darnold likely will be without a familiar right tackle, as both George Fant (ankle) and Chuma Edoga (ankle) are doubtful to play Sunday.

Set to start Sunday

Darnold (shoulder) is expected to start Sunday against the Dolphins, Ralph Vacchiano of SportsNet New York reports.

Analysis: The 23-year-old is set to practice without limitations for the second straight day, putting him on track to return from a two-game absence this weekend. Assuming all goes well during Friday's practice, Darnold should avoid an injury designation for Sunday.

Returns to full practice

Darnold (shoulder) practiced fully Thursday, Rich Cimini of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: That's an upgrade from the QB's limited participation Wednesday. With a full session under his belt, Darnold -- who last suited up in Week 8 -- is now on track to return to action Sunday against the Dolphins, barring a setback.

Could return to action Week 12

Jets head coach Adam Gase said Darnold (shoulder) will be a limited participant at practice Wednesday, Ethan B. Greenberg of the team's official site reports.

Analysis: That said, Andy Vasquez of The Bergen Record relays that Darnold is slated to "have a pretty full workload," a positive early sign for the quarterback's chances of putting an end to a two-game absence Sunday against the Dolphins. Before reaching a decision on his status for Week 12, however, the Jets will evaluate Darnold on a day-by-day basis in each of the team's three practices. Joe Flacco would pick up another start Sunday if Darnold can't gain clearance to play.

Will be evaluated Wednesday

The Jets are expected to evaluate Darnold (shoulder) on Wednesday before making a decision about his Week 12 availability, Connor Hughes of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Darnold hasn't played since Week 8 due to a lingering AC joint injury in his right shoulder, but Ralph Vacchiano of SportsNet New York has reported that coach Adam Gase said the young signal-caller has a "good shot" to return against Miami on Sunday. It sounds like the Jets are satisfied with how Darnold has progressed in his throwing routine, per Vacchiano, but the team remains concerned about re-injury. As Rich Cimini of ESPN.com notes, Darnold said Monday that a worst-case scenario for…read more

Remains sidelined Sunday

Darnold (shoulder) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Chargers.

Analysis: With Darnold still sidelined, Joe Flacco -- who threw for season highs in yards (262) and touchdowns (three) in the Jets' loss to the Patriots in Week 9 - will log the start Sunday against the Chargers. Looking ahead, coach Adam Gase noted Friday that Darnold has a "good shot" to return to action in Week 12 against the Dolphins, Ralph Vacchiano of SportsNet New York reports.

Doubtful for Week 11

Darnold (shoulder) is officially listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Chargers.

Analysis: Darnold hasn't practiced all week, so while he's not officially ruled out, he doesn't seem to have much hope of suiting up, even as an emergency backup. With Darnold on the mend from the shoulder injury, Joe Flacco -- who threw for season highs in yards (262) and touchdowns (three) in a Week 9 loss to the Patriots -- is in line to start against the struggling Los Angeles defense.

Could be back Week 12

Coach Adam Gase said Friday that Darnold (shoulder) has a "good shot" to return to action the Jets' Week 12 game against the Dolphins, Ralph Vacchiano of SportsNet New York reports .

Analysis: Darnold has already been ruled out ahead of Sunday's game against the Chargers due to a sprained AC joint in his right shoulder, paving the way for Joe Flacco to draw another start. The 23-year-old is trending in the right direction for Week 12, but his activity in practice next week will ultimately dictate whether or not he's fit to play. Darnold has just 1,045 passing yards and a 3:6 TD:INT through six appearances.

Confident he'll return this season

Darnold (shoulder) said Monday that he's "very confident" he will retake the field before the end of the 2020 season, Connor Hughes of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Per Al Iannazzone of Newsday, Darnold is nursing an AC joint sprain in his right shoulder, the severity of which will cause him to sit out Sunday's game against the Chargers. That will represent Darnold's second straight missed game and his fourth absence of the year. Rich Cimini of ESPN.com notes that the Jets don't consider Darnold a candidate for IR and that the team has labeled him week-to-week. In the meantime, Joe Flacco will command the Jets offense.

Will miss another game

Darnold (shoulder) won't suit up in Sunday's game versus the Chargers, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The Jets are exercising caution as the 23-year-old quarterback recovers from a shoulder injury that he picked up Week 8. According to Rich Cimini of ESPN.com, coach Adam Gase said the team is "cautiously optimistic" that Darnold will return Week 12 against the Dolphins, adding that he's week-to-week and IR is not on the table at this time. Until Darnold returns, Joe Flacco is expected to start under center for the Jets.

Expected back after bye

Darnold (shoulder) is expected to return Week 11 against the Chargers, and he'll have his top three wide receivers all healthy at once for the first time all season barring any setbacks, Andy Vasquez of NorthJersey.com reports.

Analysis: Darnold missed the team's Week 9 loss to New England, but the benefit of a well-timed bye Week 10 is expected to provide enough time for his latest shoulder injury to heal. Backup quarterback Joe Flacco benefited from having all three of Jamison Crowder, Breshad Perriman and Denzel Mims healthy at once for the first time, leading the offense to nine plays of 15-plus yards en route to a near-upset of the Patriots. Darnold hasn't had a game with more than five such plays this season, but he has…read more

Labels self day-to-day

Darnold said Tuesday that his sore throwing shoulder is improving, but he labeled himself as day-to-day heading into the Jets' Week 10 bye, Andy Vasquez of The Bergen Record reports.

Analysis: Coming out of a Week 8 loss to Kansas City, Darnold's right shoulder didn't respond as well as the Jets had hoped, prompting head coach Adam Gase to rule the signal-caller out ahead of Monday's game against the Patriots. Joe Flacco drew his third start of the season and performed well in the Jets' 30-27 loss, but Darnold will remain atop the depth chart heading into a Nov. 22 game against the Chargers if his shoulder cooperates. Darnold admitted that he has yet to outline a throwing or rehab…read more

Sitting out Monday

Darnold (shoulder) is inactive for Monday night's game against the Patriots.

Analysis: As a result, Joe Flacco is slated to draw the start at QB for the Jets on Monday, while Darnold will look to take advantage of the Jets' Week 10 bye in order to heal up and hopefully reenter the lineup in the team's Nov. 22 road game against the Chargers.

Listed as doubtful

Darnold (shoulder) will not practice Saturday and is listed as doubtful for Monday's contest against the Patriots, Brian Costello of the New York Post reports.

Analysis: Darnold appeared to suffer some sort of setback after testing out his injured throwing shoulder earlier this week in practice. As a result, it seems like a foregone conclusion Joe Flacco will make his third start of the season. Through two games, the veteran Flacco has completed just over 50 percent of his passes for 381 yards, one touchdown and one interception.

Taking it day-by-day

When asked whether he expects to be out there for Monday's game against the Patriots, Darnold (shoulder) responded with "Yeah...we'll see..just taking it day-by-day" on Friday, Ralph Vacchianno of SNY.tv reports.

Analysis: Vacchiano's video clip of Darnold answering the question shows the quarterback being non-commital on his status, though Darnold does begin by answering in the affirmative when asked if he expects to be out there. With the Jets searching for their first win of the season and Monday's home tilt against a Patriots team that has dropped four in a row offering perhaps the best opportunity New York will have to get that win, expect Darnold to do everything in his power to be out there.

Upgrades to limited practice

Darnold (shoulder) will be limited in Friday's practice, Connor Hughes of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Though a recent MRI detected no new structural damage to Darnold's throwing shoulder, the quarterback still sat out practice Thursday while tending to normal soreness following last week's loss to the Chiefs. Coach Adam Gase has expressed optimism that Darnold will be ready to start Monday's game in New England, and the 23-year-old will still have another chance to increase his practice reps Saturday to clear up any concern about his Week 9 status.

Won't practice Thursday

An MRI didn't reveal any structural damage to Darnold's shoulder, with coach Adam Gase noting that the QB is "just sore," Ralph Vacchiano of SportsNet New York reports.

Analysis: Though Darnold won't practice Thursday, Gase has expressed confidence that the signal-caller will be able to play Monday night against the Patriots. Darnold has two more chances this week to get in practice reps in advance of that contest.

MRI returns good news

Darnold (shoulder) said on The Michael Kay Show on ESPN New York that Monday's MRI "turned out really good" and that he feels "a lot better than I thought I would."

Analysis: The 23-year-old played every snap during Sunday's loss to the Chiefs but aggravated his shoulder injury. It appears he avoided any serious complications, but Darnold's status for Week 9 remains in question, with things potentially coming into focus once the Jets return to practice later this week. The Jets have their bye week following Monday's matchup with the Patriots, so the team could opt to play it safe if there's a decent risk of re-injury.

Going for MRI on shoulder

Darnold (shoulder) will be getting an MRI and a second opinion on his shoulder injury Monday, Al Iannazzone of Newsday Sports reports.

Analysis: Darnold missed two games earlier this season with a shoulder injury, and he may have aggravated it late in Sunday's blowout loss to Kansas City. While coach Adam Gase downplayed the severity of Darnold's injury in the postgame press conference, it's worth noting that Gase also put him back into the game in which he originally hurt his shoulder, even though that injury was significant enough to force the quarterback out of the team's two ensuing contests. A clearer diagnosis regarding the…read more

Possible shoulder injury in loss

Darnold completed 18 of 30 passes for 133 yards and rushed four times for 21 yards in Sunday's 35-9 loss to Kansas City, but he may have re-injured his shoulder.

Analysis: Darnold's three-game passing touchdown drought has him stuck on three passing scores and four total touchdowns through six games played. In his second game back from a shoulder injury, Darnold appeared to get banged up in the shoulder region late, and coach Adam Gase said after the game that the team will re-evaluate the injury, though Darnold appears to be okay, per ESPN's RIch Cimini. Even if he avoids a setback with the shoulder, Darnold's dearth of weapons -- which was magnified in this one…read more

Practices fully

Darnold (shoulder) was a full participant in Thursday's practice.

Analysis: The Jets capped Darnold's reps in Wednesday's session, but those limitations were likely just maintenance-related after he returned to game action in last Sunday's loss to the Bills on the heels of a two-game absence. With Darnold reporting no setbacks with his right shoulder coming out of that contest, he'll be in the clear to make his sixth start of the season this weekend against the Chiefs. The young signal-caller may have to make do without a couple of weapons in the passing game, as both…read more

Limited to begin week

Darnold (shoulder) was limited at practice Wednesday, Rich Cimini of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Darnold saw his first game action since Week 4 in last Sunday's 18-10 loss to the Bills, so the quarterback is presumably just getting some extra maintenance Wednesday for his throwing shoulder. Perhaps of more concern with regard to Darnold's fantasy prospects Week 8 against the Chiefs is that two of the Jets' starting wideouts -- Jamison Crowder (groin) and Breshad Perriman (concussion) -- were both unable to practice Wednesday.

Struggles in return

Darnold (shoulder) completed 12 of 24 passes for 120 yards and two interceptions in Sunday's 18-10 loss to the Bills.

Analysis: In his first action since Week 4, Darnold led New York to an opening-drive field goal, then threaded one of his best passes of the season to Braxton Berrios to convert 3rd-and-20 on the next drive, which ultimately ended on a turnover on downs in the red zone. Unfortunately, Darnold was completely shut down after New York took a 10-0 lead in the second quarter, and his second interception sealed the win for Buffalo. The third overall pick in the 2018 draft continues to show occasional flashes…read more

Good to go Sunday

Darnold (shoulder) is active for Sunday's game against the Bills, Randy Lange of the Jets' official site reports.

Analysis: Darnold experienced no setbacks with his right shoulder after taking part in practices on a limited basis Wednesday through Friday, clearing the way for him to step back in as the Jets' starting quarterback following a two-week absence. The signal-caller will have to make do without top slot weapon Jamison Crowder (groin), though Darnold should benefit from the addition of rookie second-round wideout Denzel Mims (hamstrings), who will make his NFL debut Sunday.

In line to return Sunday

Darnold (shoulder) is on track to start Sunday's game against the Bills, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The QB, who last played Oct. 1, is bouncing from an AC joint sprain, but he had a setback-free week of practice and is now poised to return to the field Sunday. It appears as though the Jets' top pass catcher, Jamison Crowder (groin), won't be available, but on the plus side, second-rounder Denzel Mims (hamstrings) has been activated off IR and is slated to make his NFL debut Sunday.

Questionable but expected to play

Darnold (shoulder) is officially listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Buffalo, Andy Vasquez of USA Today Sports reports, and coach Adam Gase said Darnold will start barring any setbacks, per Rich Cimini of ESPN.com.

Analysis: While he's questionable on the official injury report, Darnold has been able to practice on a limited basis this week and is more likely than not to suit up against the Bills. Darnold will hope to have top wide receiver Jamison Crowder (questionable, groin) available for this one, as Crowder's 115 yards and a touchdown accounted for the majority of Darnold's production when these teams met in Buffalo in Week 1.

On track for Sunday

The Jets are planning on having Darnold (shoulder) start Sunday's game against the Bills, barring a setback, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: The 23-year-old returned to practice this week after missing the last two games with the right shoulder sprain, and the team appears to be satisfied with where he stands on the health front heading into the weekend. According to Ralph Vacchiano of SportsNet New York, coach Adam Gase said he's not worried about Darnold reinjuring the shoulder, though the quarterback will likely have to manage some pain if he suits up. The Jets will release their final Week 7 injury report later Friday, which…read more

Making progress

Darnold (shoulder) "looked good" at practice Wednesday, according to coach Adam Gase, Rich Cimini of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: "From what he's saying right now, he feels good coming into practice today," Gase noted before Thursday's practice, in which Darnold will be listed as as a limited participant, per Connor Hughes of The Athletic. The next hurdle for Darnold will be reestablishing his throwing velocity, but as things currently stand the QB is trending in the right direction in advance of Sunday's game against the Bills.

Hoping to play Sunday

Darnold (shoulder) took first-team reps in practice Wednesday and is hoping to suit up Sunday against the Bills, Rich Cimini of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Coach Adam Gase said the team will evaluate Darnold as the week progresses and will have him split first-team reps with Joe Flacco. Gase noted that the most important factor in determining a Week 7 starter will be based on how Darnold's shoulder responds Thursday after he resumed throwing the ball Wednesday. If Darnold is able to suit up Sunday, he could finally have the top three receivers on the Jets' depth chart available to him, with rookie Denzel Mims (hamstring) expected to make his NFL…read more

On pitch count at practice

Darnold (shoulder) will be a limited participant at practice Wednesday, Manish Mehta of the New York Daily News reports.

Analysis: Specifically, Jets head coach Adam Gase noted that Darnold will be on a "pitch count" Wednesday. Per Rich Cimini of ESPN.com, the key to gauging the quarterback's chances of returning to action Sunday against the Bills is how well his shoulder responds to the throwing he does Wednesday. If Darnold is unable to go this weekend, Joe Flacco would draw a third straight start under center.

Could miss another week

Coach Adam Gase said Monday that Darnold has a few more steps to progress through before being cleared for Sunday's game versus the Bills, Rich Cimini of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Gase wasn't optimistic about Darnold's chances of being ready in time, hinting that the third-year quarterback is likely to spend another game on the sidelines. Darnold didn't practice at all last week, and he'll need to at least log a limited session by Friday to have a shot at playing Sunday. If he misses another game, Joe Flacco is slated for a third straight start.

Officially inactive Sunday

Darnold (right shoulder) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Dolphins.

Analysis: With Darnold out for the second straight game as expected, Joe Flacco will garner the start at QB for the Jets once again in Week 6.

Goes from out to doubtful

Darnold (right shoulder) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Dolphins.

Analysis: Darnold had previously been presumed out, but the team has officially listed him as doubtful. That said, Ralph Vacchiano of SNY.tv notes that Darnold hasn't practiced this week and is still ultimately expected to be inactive, with Joe Flacco set to start for a second consecutive week.

Officially out for Week 6

New York ruled Darnold (shoulder) out for Sunday's game in Miami, Ethan B. Greenberg of the Jets' official site reports.

Analysis: The news was fully expected after head coach Adam Gase said earlier Wednesday that Joe Flacco would draw a second straight start under center this weekend. Darnold, who didn't practice Wednesday, still needs more time to recover from his sprained throwing shoulder, an injury he sustained in the Jets' Oct. 1 loss to the Broncos. The Jets remain optimistic that Darnold will be ready to reclaim starting duties in the team's Week 7 game versus the Bills on Oct. 25.

Not on track to play Week 6

Darnold (shoulder) isn't expected to be available for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, Rich Cimini of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: While the Jets haven't officially ruled Darnold out for Week 6, Cimini notes that the team is preparing Joe Flacco to make a second consecutive start behind center. Darnold previously hinted in an interview Monday that he might not be ready to play this week, noting that while his sprained right shoulder was "feeling a lot better" overall, he's still experiencing pain. Assuming Darnold shows enough improvement after another game off to recuperate, he should be ready to reclaim starting duties…read more

Status up in air

Darnold (shoulder) is unsure whether he'll return Sunday against the Dolphins, Rich Cimini of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: After throwing Monday, Darnold mentioned he feels "pain every now and then," but his right throwing shoulder is "feeling a lot better." He also hopes "to practice this week and play on Sunday." Earlier Monday, coach Adam Gase was similarly uncertain about Darnold's ability to return, telling Ralph Vacchiano of SportsNet New York that the Jets "will kind of see how the week goes." In the event Darnold misses a second consecutive game, Joe Flacco is in line for another start.

Status for Week 6 still uncertain

Coach Adam Gase was non-committal about the chances of Darnold (shoulder) suiting up against the Chargers in Week 6 on Monday, Ralph Vacchiano of SportsNet New York reports.

Analysis: "We'll kind of see how the week goes," Gase said when asked about Darnold's recovery from a sprained AC joint in his shoulder. Per Vacchiano, Gase called the injury "week-to-week." Joe Flacco was serviceable in his first start as a Jet during Sunday's loss to Arizona, a development which could lessen pressure for the team to rush Darnold back on the field. Gase said he expects to receive a more significant update on Darnold's health Wednesday.

Return timetable uncertain

Darnold (shoulder) said Wednesday that he doesn't know whether his AC joint sprain is a one-week injury, or if he'll need more recovery time, Al Iannazzone of Newsday reports.

Analysis: The Jets have already ruled Darnold out for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, but his status for Week 6 and beyond is more muddled while he contends with an injury that the team is viewing as a week-to-week concern. At least for one game, Joe Flacco will step in as the Jets' new starting quarterback.

Out Week 5

Darnold (shoulder) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Cardinals.

Analysis: As a result, Joe Flacco will start at quarterback for the Jets in Week 5, and possibly longer, given that head coach Adam Gase said Darnold is in "a lot of pain" as a result of his AC joint sprain, according to Rich Cimini of ESPN.com. Beyond Sunday, Darnold is viewed by the Jets as week-to-week, which clouds his status for the team's Week 6 contest Oct. 18 versus the Chargers.

Wants to play Week 5

Darnold (shoulder) said Monday that he hopes to play through his sprained AC joint during Sunday's game against the Cardinals, Andy Vasquez of The Bergen Record reports.

Analysis: Darnold remained non-committal about whether he'll practice Wednesday, which Ian Rapoport of NFL Network previously hinted would go a long way in determining his Week 5 availability. The third-year signal-caller did note that he "feels good" after having played through the injury last Thursday, per Ethan B. Greenberg of the Jets' official site. Whether Darnold is able to suit up versus Arizona will likely be determined by whether he's able to throw in practices to begin the week, so Joe Flacco…read more

Looks likely to miss time

Darnold (shoulder) could be forced to miss time while recovering from a sprained AC joint, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Rapoport adds that the Jets could make a decision on Darnold's availability for Week 5 based on whether or not he's able to throw during Wednesday's practice. Though the 23-year-old signal-caller was able to retake the field after getting hurt in the first half of last Thursday's game, it now looks as though veteran backup Joe Flacco is trending toward entering the lineup.

Injury specified as AC joint sprain

The injury Darnold suffered in Thursday's loss to the Broncos has been specified as an AC joint sprain, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. Rapoport adds that practicing through pain is an issue with this injury, and that issue can be solved by giving Darnold some time to heal.

Analysis: Darnold was able to return to Thursday's game after getting hurt in the first half and looked decent, but it's apparent now that he was playing through significant pain. With coach Adam Gase's job potentially on the line for the 0-4 Jets, don't be surprised to see Gase try to keep Darnold on the field if at all possible. We should have a better understanding of Darnold's status when the Jets begin practicing next week, with veteran Joe Flacco waiting in the wings should Darnold need to miss any…read more

May miss time

Coach Adam Gase said there's a chance Darnold misses time due to the sprained right shoulder that he suffered Thursday against the Broncos, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: During the course of the Jets' 37-28 loss, Darnold left the game after he was thrown down on his throwing shoulder. Backup Joe Flacco finished the drive, but Darnold returned a short time later and played the rest of the game. Still, Darnold took six sacks and 10 quarterback hits en route to 23-for-42 passing for 230 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions. Perhaps the lone bright spot for Darnold was a 46-yard TD run less than four minutes after the opening kickoff. Now with his status in…read more

Takes bruising in Week 4 loss

Darnold (shoulder) completed 23 of 42 passes for 230 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions in the Jets' 37-28 loss to the Broncos on Thursday. He also rushed six times for 84 yards and a touchdown.

Analysis: Darnold had a solid fantasy effort overall in terms of total yards, but the fact he had to exit the game for a period of time in the first half with a shoulder injury and ended up taking six sacks and 10 total quarterback hits underscores how difficult a night it was for him from a physical standpoint. The third-year signal-caller did continue to demonstrate excellent chemistry with Jamison Crowder, who he connected with on seven occasions for 104 yards. Darnold also encouragingly found…read more

Back in action Thursday

Darnold (shoulder) has re-entered Thursday's game against the Broncos, Rich Cimini of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Darnold briefly left Thursday's contest due to what appeared to be a serious shoulder injury, but the Jets' doctors quickly cleared him to return to the field. The third-year pro had a 46-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, and he'll look to keep providing New York's offense with a spark now that he's back in the game.

Leaves game with injury

Darnold exited Thursday's contest against the Broncos due to an apparent shoulder injury, Connor Hughes of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: Darnold was thrown down on his shoulder while being sacked late in the first quarter. The third-year signal-caller has headed to the locker room with trainers, so in the meantime Joe Flacco will line up under center for the Jets.

Retaining starting job

Head coach Adam Gase said Monday that Darnold won't be benched following the Jets' 0-3 start to the season, Rich Cimini of ESPN.com reports. "He just needs to keep playing," Gase said of the quarterback. "He needs to keep playing and keep fixing the mistakes that are made and really emphasize the things he's doing really well, and just keep building on those."

Analysis: Darnold has had a rough start to his third NFL season, with his 29.0 QBR placing him ahead of only Washington's Dwayne Haskins (28.4) among qualified quarterbacks. He had an especially rough showing in the Jets' 36-7 loss to Colts on Sunday, when he threw three interceptions and had two of them returned for touchdowns. A lack of healthy, experienced pass catchers and poor offensive line play undoubtedly contributed to Darnold's struggles, so the Jets will give the 23-year-old some more time to…read more

Tosses three picks in loss

Darnold completed 17 of 29 passes for 168 yards and a touchdown with three interceptions during Sunday's 36-7 loss to the Colts. He also rushed for 20 yards on five carries.

Analysis: It was another disaster all around for the Jets. Darnold's second pass attempt of the game resulted in a pick-six, and he tossed a second INT that was returned to the end zone by the Colts in the third quarter. Darnold was also sacked for a safety in the fourth after starting left tackle Mekhi Becton (shoulder) was knocked out of the game. While he isn't the sole cause of his team's problems, Darnold hasn't been good enough to overcome all the Jets' other issues, either. He'll try to get things…read more

Getting no help

Darnold completed 21 of 32 passes for 179 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 31-13 loss to the 49ers. He also rushed twice for seven yards.

Analysis: Darnold focused on getting the ball out of his hand quickly to slow down San Francisco's pass rush. He was sacked only once, but Darnold failed to orchestrate much offense outside of a 30-yard touchdown to Braxton Berrios in garbage time. Breshad Perriman (ankle) and Chris Hogan (ribs) both left the game, leaving New York without its top four wide receivers with Jamison Crowder (hamstring) and Denzel Mims (hamstring) inactive. Given his lack of weapons, Darnold will be fighting an uphill battle…read more

Struggles in Week 1 loss

Darnold completed 21 of 35 passes for 215 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Sunday's 27-17 loss to Buffalo. He also rushed once for six yards.

Analysis: Darnold got off to a dreadful start, but he finally settled down in the two-minute drill to lead his team to a field goal before halftime after throwing an interception earlier in the second quarter. He pulled the Jets back within 11 points with a 69-yard touchdown to Jamison Crowder in the third quarter, on which the receiver did most of the work after the catch. While Darnold has been hampered by a dearth of weapons -- which could get even worse with Le'Veon Bell sustaining a hamstring injury…read more

Stuck with questionable roster

Darnold should have an improved offensive line in front of him this season, but the Jets' receiver group still appears shaky, Connor Hughes of The Athletic reports.

Analysis: The Jets appear to have turned over four of the five spots on their O-line, and while center Connor McGovern is the only one proven to be an above-average starter, the group should at least be less of a disaster than it was last year. On the other hand, it isn't clear if newcomer Breshad Perriman will be an upgrade or downgrade from Robby Anderson (now with the Panthers) out wide, nor is it clear that second-round pick Denzel Mims will be ready to contribute out of the gate. Darnold may once…read more

Strong second half of second season

Darnold completed 23 of 36 passes for 199 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Sunday's 13-6 win over Buffalo. He also finished with minus-2 yards on three rushing attempts.

Analysis: Darnold broke a 3-3 tie with a one-yard touchdown to Jamison Crowder early in the fourth quarter, bringing his season TD:INT to 19:13. The second-year quarterback also cleared the 3,000-yard mark, finishing with 3,024 passing yards despite missing three games due to mononucleosis. Darnold showed excellent progress in the second half of the season, leading the Jets to a 6-2 record down the stretch while compiling a 13:4 TD:INT over those final eight games. The third overall selection from the…read more

Early TD enough in low-scoring win

Darnold completed 16 of 26 passes for 183 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 16-10 win over Pittsburgh. He added three yards on four carries and committed three fumbles, losing one.

Analysis: Darnold capped the opening drive with a 23-yard touchdown pass to Robby Anderson, but the second-year quarterback went quiet after that in what turned into a defensive battle. His lost fumble in the final minute of the first half was a costly one, as Pittsburgh turned it into a touchdown three plays later. Darnold has compiled an 18:12 TD:INT in 12 games played heading into the Week 17 season finale in Buffalo.

Pair of TDs in defeat

Darnold completed 18 of 32 passes for 218 yards with two touchdowns and one interception in the Jets' 42-21 loss to the Ravens on Thursday. He also rushed once for 11 yards and lost a fumble.

Analysis: Darnold put together a serviceable fantasy night while playing under less-than-ideal circumstances against an aggressive Ravens defense. The second-year quarterback's two turnovers certainly didn't help the Jets' cause in a game in which they already faced long odds, but from a fantasy perspective, Darnold's fourth multi-touchdown effort over the last five games certainly had to please managers who rostered him in their playoff contests. Darnold will look to continue putting together a strong…read more

Does just enough to beat Miami

Darnold completed 20 of 36 passes for 270 yards, two touchdowns and an interception in Sunday's 22-21 win over Miami. He added three carries for three yards.

Analysis: Darnold threw a 26-yard touchdown to Robby Anderson and a 14-yarder to Demaryius Thomas, both in the second quarter. He also drove the offense down the field for a game-winning field goal as time expired, taking over down 21-19 with 1:33 to go. The second-year quarterback has compiled an 8:2 TD:INT against subpar competition over the past four weeks, but the opponent difficulty will rise dramatically in Week 15, as the Jets have a quick turnaround Thursday in Baltimore.

Practices fully

Darnold (knee/thumb) practiced fully Wednesday.

Analysis: Darnold is a little banged up in advance of Sunday's game against the 3-9 Dolphins, but his full practice participation Wednesday signals that his Week 14 status isn't in doubt. The quarterback -- who had built up some positive momentum in Weeks 11 and 12 -- will thus look to bounce back from his 239-yard, zero-touchdown effort in last weekend's 22-6 loss to the previously winless Bengals,

Dealing with pair of injuries

Darnold emerged from Sunday's 22-6 loss at Cincinnati with a knee injury and bruised ribs, Ralph Vacchiano of SportsNet New York reports.

Analysis: Darnold incurred four sacks and nine quarterback hits en route to 28-for-48 passing, 239 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions. Near the end of the contest, he was seen with a visible limp, which he chalked up as a foot injury, per Olivia Landis of the Jets' official site. Coach Adam Gase clarified Darnold's health concerns Monday but also stated he expects the second-year signal-caller to be "fine." Wednesday's injury report will reveal how much Darnold was able to practice to kick off…read more

Momentum stunted in loss

Darnold completed 28 of 48 passes for 239 yards without a touchdown or turnover in Sunday's 22-6 loss to Cincinnati. He added nine yards on two rushing attempts.

Analysis: Darnold played better than his numbers showed, but the Jets were plagued by key drops throughout this one, including one by Robby Anderson in the end zone. Nonetheless, this is a major letdown for the second-year quarterback after he had built up momentum with a 6:1 TD:INT and a rushing touchdown over the previous two games. Darnold was limping late in the game but said his foot got stepped on and that he'll be fine moving forward. Given his recent ups and downs, Darnold will be a low-floor,…read more

Back-to-back stellar showings

Darnold completed 20 of 29 passes for 315 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 34-3 win over the Raiders. He also rushed four times for 16 yards and a touchdown.

Analysis: For the second time in three games, Darnold kept the ball on an option play near the goal line for a rushing score, with this one coming from four yards out in the second quarter. His first pass of the second half went 69 yards to Braxton Berrios, and Darnold tossed a one-yard touchdown to Ryan Griffin on the next play before adding another one-yard touchdown to Robby Anderson to cap the following drive. With 608 yards and a 6:1 TD:INT through the air plus a rushing score in the past two weeks,…read more

Throws four touchdowns

Darnold completed 19 of 30 passes for 293 yards, four touchdowns and one interception in Week 11 against the Redskins.

Analysis: Darnold worked very efficiently, needing only 30 pass attempts to post his highest-yardage total since Week 6. He also hit on four touchdowns from 20, six, 16 and 19 yards to post a single-game, career-best mark. Though positive matchups may explain much of his production, Darnold has now completed 65 of 99 attempts for 783 yards, six touchdowns and two interceptions across his last three contests. He'll look to keep things going with another exploitable opponent as the Jets take on Oakland in…read more

Turnover-free in win

Darnold completed 19 of 30 passes for 230 yards and a touchdown while adding 25 yards and another score on three rushing attempts in Sunday's 34-27 win over the Giants.

Analysis: Darnold opened the scoring with a two-yard rushing touchdown, keeping the ball on an option play as the Jets unveiled a previously unused wrinkle to their offense. The second-year quarterback isn't much of a factor on the ground, but he could boost his fantasy value by calling his own number more often near the goal line, as this was only Darnold's second career rushing score. He added a 23-yard touchdown pass to Jamison Crowder later in the first quarter. Most importantly, Darnold finished…read more

Struggles continue in Miami

Darnold completed 27 of 39 passes for 260 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Sunday's 26-18 loss to the Dolphins. He added one yard on two rushing attempts.

Analysis: Darnold came out of the gate hot and then fizzled out for a second straight week. He capped the opening drive with a 12-yard touchdown pass to Jamison Crowder and appeared to throw a two-yard touchdown to tight end Ryan Griffin late in the first half, but the play was controversially taken off the board on replay, and Darnold was picked off on the ensuing play. Darnold has been part of the problem in New York's 1-7 start, and his carelessness in the red zone has been particularly worrisome.…read more