Walker to be Panthers starting quarterback

PJ Walker will start at quarterback for the Carolina Panthers on Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams, but interim head coach Steve Wilks expects Baker Mayfield to be available as a backup.

Mayfield has not practiced all week due to an ankle sprain and is questionable. The team is awaiting a final MRI before making a decision on whether or not to activate him.

On Friday, Mayfield was at practice, but did not participate. However, Wilks said Mayfield had “a great practice” with trainers before the session.

“They took him through an intense workout, good movements, change-ups and he really tried to put pressure on the ankle,” Wilks said. “He threw the ball well. He’s a tough kid. We’ll wait to see the latest MRI report.”

Jacob Eason could be called up from the practice squad as the backup quarterback if the Panthers decide not to activate Mayfield this week.

Walker has a 2-0 record as a starter in the NFL, winning games in 2020 and 2021 with the Panthers, but has completed only 57 percent of his passes, with eight interceptions and two touchdowns.

Mayfield has struggled this season, posting a 1-4 record as a starter and is at the bottom of nearly every stat sheet through the air.

Carolina’s other quarterbacks, Sam Darnold and Matt Corral, are on the injured reserve list. Corral will be out for the entire season.

Wilks indicated that corner Jayce Horn (rib) likely will not play this week, but expects corners Donte Jackson (ankle) and C.J. Henderson (knee) to play even though they did not practice Friday and are questionable.

Receiver Laviska Shenault was ruled out due to a hamstring injury. Wide receiver Robbie Anderson (illness) did not practice Friday and was added to the injury doubt list.