The Carolina Panthers plan for quarterback Sam Darnold to start Sunday against the New England Patriots barring any pregame setbacks, a source tells ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Darnold officially is listed as questionable because of a shoulder injury. He also suffered a concussion last week against the Atlanta Falcons but officially cleared the concussion protocol Saturday.
Panthers coach Matt Rhule told reporters Friday that Darnold is considered a game-time decision against New England, saying Carolina must "prepare for all contingencies and expect the unexpected."
P.J. Walker took most of the reps with the first-team offense in practice this past week and would replace Darnold under center if the former No.