Panthers hopeful Darnold, McCaffrey can play vs. Patriots

Carolina Panthers head coach Matt Rhule is hopeful quarterback Sam Darnold and running back Christian McCaffrey will suit up for the Week 9 meeting with the New England Patriots, according to Joe Person of The Athletic.

Darnold is listed as questionable due to a concussion and shoulder injury suffered during Sunday's victory over the Atlanta Falcons. He was limited in practice Friday and will need to be cleared by an independent neurologist to play.

Rhule added Darnold could dress as the backup to P.J. Walker, who attempted just one pass after Darnold exited last Sunday. Walker has one career start to his name and has thrown one touchdown to five interceptions over his career.

Meanwhile, McCaffrey hasn't played since Week 3 due to a hamstring injury and is yet to be activated from injured reserve. The Panthers will have until 4 p.m. ET on Saturday to remove him from IR.

McCaffrey and Darnold played a big part in Carolina's 3-0 start, though the team has lost four of five since then.