Sam Darnold's Reaction After Losing Panthers Quarterback Competition

Mayfield who was acquired from the Cleveland Browns won the job over fellow 2018 first-round pick Sam Darnold.

Darnold gave a diplomatic response to ceding the QB1 role.

But Darnold admitted that it "sucks" losing the competition, but he's not fretting about how this decision will affect his career.

"I'm not worried about what this means for the future," Darnold said. "To be honest, I'm really focused on Buffalo and doing everything I can to play well this next preseason game."

Since the New York Jets made him the No. 3 overall selection, Darnold has posted a 59.8 percent completion rate and 76.9 quarterback rating in 50 career games.

At this time last year, he was embarking on a fresh start in Carolina similar to the one Mayfield will now receive.

Darnold will make $18.9 million on the fifth-year option this season.

But his outlook is a question mark beyond 2022.

Mayfield will face off against his former team in Week 1.