Following up on this week's Team Notes. ... After firing Matt Rhule last week, the Panthers have signaled they're willing to trade running back Christian McCaffrey -- for the right price.

On Wednesday, McCaffrey was asked about being the subject of trade rumors and said he's not paying attention to it.

Right now I'm a Carolina Panther and I'm giving my all to this place.

"If they keep me in the loop, great. If not, it doesn't matter. Like I said, to me, I'm focused on playing against the Bucs this week right now. And I'm doing everything I can to prepare for that game."

McCaffrey became the third player in league history to register 1,000 yards rushing and receiving back in 2019. But he battled several injuries in 2020 and 2021, playing just 10 games over those two seasons combined.

He's been on the field for 85 percent of Carolina's snaps this season, accounting for 670 yards -- 393 rushing, 227 receiving -- on 118 touches with three touchdowns.

McCaffrey signed a four-year, $64 million extension through the 2025 season back in April 2020.

The Rams, 49ers and Bills have all been mentioned as having interest, so I'll be watching for more on this with the Nov. 1 trade deadline looming. ...

Meanwhile, P.J. Walker will be back in the starting lineup for the Panthers against the Buccaneers this weekend.

Interim head coach Steve Wilks made the announcement about the team's quarterback plan at his Wednesday press conference. Walker started last Sunday's loss to the Rams and left with a neck injury, but he's been cleared to play this weekend and that puts him ahead of the team's other options.

Baker Mayfield is no longer wearing a boot to protect his injured ankle, but he remains out of practice. Sam Darnold was designated to return from injured reserve on Wednesday and took part in his first practice since August. That may put him on track to play at some point, but it would be a quick turnaround to put him on the field this week.

Walker was 10-of-16 for 60 yards last Sunday. Jacob Eason was 3-of-5 for 59 yards and an interception after replacing him in the fourth quarter.

Also Wednesday, wide receiver Laviska Shenault Jr. (hamstring) were was a participant.

Shenault has missed the last two games, so having him back on the field was a plus after the team traded Robbie Anderson Monday.