The Facts: Upon the conclusion of Panthers minicamp, it has been made clear that Darnold is the starting quarterback -- for now. Speaking with reporters on Thursday, Panthers coach Matt Rhule didn't tip-toe around the scenario of who would lead the offense if a game was scheduled for today. "Sam's gotten a lot better," Rhule said. "Really, really improving in the offense and if we played today, Sam would be our quarterback."

Diehards Line: Rhule's early assessment won't stop the speculation surrounding the Panthers' QB situation heading into 2022, of course. Carolina has been a heavily theorized destination for disgruntled Browns QB Baker Mayfield ever since he requested a trade from Cleveland. Carolina also traded up to select QB Matt Corral in the third round of April's draft and returns P.J. Walker, who has plenty of experience in his two seasons with the team. Entering a crucial third season with a 10-23 overall record as coach, Rhule maintained that he still wants to see improvements from Darnold once the Panthers reconvene for training camp in late July.