Report: Panthers' Darnold expected to miss 4-6 weeks due to high ankle sprain

Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold is expected to miss four-to-six weeks due to a high ankle sprain, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

The 25-year-old will seek a second opinion on his diagnosis, Rapoport adds.

Darnold suffered the injury in the Panthers' preseason finale against the Buffalo Bills on Friday when C.J. Brewer landed on him. Darnold was carted off the field before being ruled out for the remainder of the contest.

"We're not sure we have the exact length," head coach Matt Rhule said Saturday, according to team reporter Augusta Stone. "We've sent images to specialists to try to gauge it. But again, that does look like a significant injury that could take some time."

The USC product completed 5-of-11 pass attempts for 49 yards to go along with a rushing touchdown before leaving the game.

The former third overall pick of the 2018 NFL Draft is in his second season with the Panthers after they acquired him in a trade with the New York Jets in April 2021. He started 11 of 12 games last season and sported a 4-7 record as a starter.

Carolina recently named Baker Mayfield their starting quarterback ahead of the regular season. Darnold's injury provides an opportunity for PJ Walker to remain on the roster. The Panthers lost rookie passer Matt Corral to a Lisfranc foot injury in their second preseason game.

Additionally, kicker Zane Gonzalez sustained a groin injury that is considered "significant" and could keep him out "long term," according to Rhule.

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