“I haven’t talked to him since the trade went down”: Sam Darnold Says He Looks Forward to Competing With Teddy Bridgewater After Trade to Carolina Panthers

Sam Darnold still hasn’t spoken with his former teammate Teddy Bridgewater since arriving in Carolina, the QB confirmed in a press conference on Tuesday.

A week ago, the Carolina Panthers sent 3 draft selection to the Jets in return for Sam Darnold. The USC alum seemed relieved to get out of New York, but honestly who wouldn’t be?

The signal caller is set a join a Panthers roster than has shown potential and is led by a good coaching staff (certainly better than New York’s). However, there could still be some uncertainty as to who will be under centre come regular season.

Apart from holding the 8th pick (which is unlikely to be used on a QB), the Panthers still have Teddy Bridgewater. He had an average 2020, but was definitely one of the best young QBs during his time in Minnesota.

If he can find some of his pre-injury form, the Panthers might just have a training camp QB battle on their hands. When Darnold was asked about Teddy, his former teammate in New York in 2018, he had the following to say.

“I’ve always admired Teddy,” said Darnold. “Being with him in New York, we became close friends there. We would talk every now and then. I haven’t talked to him since the trade went down, but I’m looking forward to that interaction and I’m looking forward to competing with him.”

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Will Teddy Bridgewater Stay With the Carolina Panthers?

Although Darnold still hasn’t spoken with Bridgewater yet, he may not actually have to. After the Panthers brought in Darnold, seemingly to be the starter, they consequently gave Teddy permission to seek a trade.

Speaking on the situation, Panthers HC Matt Rhule said, “We’re going to have to wait and see how things play out.” As of right now, there has been interest from a number of teams, including Denver and Chicago.

However, even if a team is interested in acquiring the veteran QB, they are unlikely to take on his contract as is. His base salary is currently $17 million, with $10 million guaranteed.