Carolina Panthers quarterback Baker Mayfield. Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

Panthers interim HC Steve Wilks: Baker Mayfield has chance to play vs. Rams

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 10/12/22

It was reported on Tuesday that Carolina Panthers starting quarterback Baker Mayfield would be out for two to six weeks due to his high-ankle sprain. Not so fast, according to interim head coach Steve Wilks.

Wilks indicates he would be unlikely to play Mayfield if he doesn’t practice this week. https://t.co/snIgJtSa11
— Nick Carboni (@NickCarboniWCNC) October 12, 2022

ESPN's Anish Shroff further reported that backup signal-caller Sam Darnold could be cleared to return to practice next week from his own high-ankle sprain, per Wilks. Darnold suffered his sprain during the preseason and has been on injured reserve since.

The Panthers have notably elected not to place Mayfield on injured reserve, giving him a shot to take the field on Sunday.

Carolina is having another rough season, as it currently sits in last place in the NFC South at 1-4. The Panthers fired Matt Rhule from his head coaching post on Monday.

Mayfield has struggled mightily during his first year in Carolina, recording four touchdowns against four interceptions. Per ESPN, Mayfield currently ranks last among eligible quarterbacks with a 71.9 passer rating, 16.6 total QBR, and 54.9% completion percentage this campaign.

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