Chauncey Gardner-Johnson Receives Backlash on Commentary of Black Athletes’ Interest In HBCUs
Saints Safety, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson received backlash for implying that Black athletes would be settling if they attend HBCUs over PWIs.
By: Baigen Seawell
It’s been one month since George Floyd’s passing. We’ve seen progressive work done in many avenues, especially in the realm of Higher Ed, to emphasize and empathize with Black students, and student-athletes.
Black athletes who once attended PWI’s, those who have committed to them, and had interest have shifted their views on the institutions. The SEC and Conference USA has threatened to halt their Championships until the Confederate Flag is banned in the states which it’s still used. We’ve also seen an uptick in interests from black athletes to attend HBCU’s instead of PWI’s.
For some, this is great news. But for others, it’s all performative.
Saints Safety, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, stated that the prospects are “Just talking they not trying to settle regardless of what’s going on […] they only saying that for clout.”
This commentary brought a storm of backlash from HBCU Alumni and Advocates. It questions the rhetoric of HBCU Athletes who had the opportunity to go pro, despite them going a different route than other athletes.
The Fact of the Matter
The problem with the comments made from Gardner-Johnson is that although HBCU Athletes are present in the NFL, NBA, and many other professional leagues, HBCU’s were and are where many pro-athletes found their beginnings. Shannon Sharpe (Savannah State), Buck Buchanan (Grambling), and a countless list of others found their claim to fame at HBCU’s throughout the 20th century.
In the modern era, though ten percent of all NFL players are HBCU made, it would be a travesty to say that any of these athletes settled for where they are today. One can’t question the institution the athlete attends and question the operations of the employer they are seeking interest in.
In an article written by The Undefeated, Redskins senior personnel executive and Grambling State Alum, Doug Williams discussed the administrative procedures in recruiting collegiate prospects.
“I know, since I’ve been in the administration part of it, that some of these scouts are inclined to give a guy at an FBS school who has not played at all more of an opportunity than a guy who’s played four years at a historically black college […] I think what we have to do is don’t judge the school. We’ve got to start judging the player. It’s all about opportunity.”
It goes to say that “settling” is not what these athletes are doing in the slightest. The spotlight seems to flood FBS and FCS institutions during draft season. This leaves little room for HBCU’s to display their talents for the next level to see. What would have been the first HBCU Combine hosted by the league would be cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, closing the door of opportunity to tap into 51 players' talents at these institutions.
Though Gardner-Johnson argues that we should monitor and hold accountable college prospects who are interested, HBCU athletes are not settling for an opportunity. It would be a disservice to say this, being that his teammate,Terron Armstead is a product of University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff.
To say that one is settling when choosing an HBCU, goes against the walking testaments that defy this argument in his own locker room.
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NBA Stars Express Concerns Over Finishing The Season In The Midst Of Racial Tensions
With the NBA set to resume play in July, players express concerns about playing while the focus of the country is on solving racial tensions.
By: Omar Cook
The NBA season is set to resume on July 30 in Orlando featuring an 8 game schedule and 22 teams, but players are concerned over wether or not this is the right time to play. In the midst of major racial tensions in our country and unified efforts to address police brutality, bringing sports into the mix seems to be a distraction from what’s truly important. With covid-19 shutting down all sports and quarantining most of the country for the past couple months, this is really the first time that racial issues have held the main stage.
Nets guard and vice president of the NBPA Kyrie Irving led a conference call featuring 80 plus players from around the league where players were able to voice their opinions about how they felt.
“I don’t support going into Orlando — I’m not with the systematic racism and the bullshit. Something smells a little fishy.”
Kyrie reportedly said he is “willing to give up everything” for social reform. His comments came as a surprise to many fans but we have seen athletes take a stand and give up their careers for social justice just as former WNBA star Maya Moore did when she decided to devote her time fully to social activism.
Kyrie was met with mixed reviews with some fans showing support and understanding where he was coming from while others were upset at him speaking against the NBA. I can understand both view points, about why continuing the season could be beneficial but also how it can be a distraction. Everyday we turn the news on, it is draining to see negative portrayals of Black men and to force athletes who may not be in the right mental state at this time to compete, could definitely be a lot to ask for.
Austin Rivers shared a difference of opinion, stating that “with this money you could help out even more people and continue to give more importantly your time and energy towards the BLM movement.”
Austin Rivers on the Kyrie/NBA situation pic.twitter.com/L0dwoD7c6h
— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) June 13, 2020
Clippers guard Lou Williams also shared his thoughts, saying a return to the NBA would be a a distraction.
I think we all would love to see sports come back and enjoy games, but it is also a pivotal time in history when the world is in full focus on racial issues. Stephen Jackson posted a video to say “now ain’t the time to be playing basketball.”
Stephen Jackson speaks on the return of the NBA. 👀
— Da Kid Gowie (@DaKidGowie) June 13, 2020
“Playing basketball’s going to do one thing. Take all the attention off the task at hand.” pic.twitter.com/JEG5C68a7Q
There are immediate changes that need to made to our society and while we all love sports, they can definitely take a backseat at the moment
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Celtics’ Jaylen Brown Organizes Peaceful Protest in Downtown Atlanta
Celtics Forward, Jaylen Brown organized a peaceful protest in the span of less than a day, driving 15 hours from Boston to Atlanta, proving that his city is bigger than what was portrayed by mainstream media outlets.
Celtics’ Jaylen Brown Organizes Peaceful Protest in Downtown Atlanta
By: Baigen Seawell
Atlanta, GA — Around the country, people have become witnesses to the loss of black lives by the hands of police brutality. The losses of Ahmaud Abery, Breonna Taylor, and finally George Floyd on Memorial Day hit a deep nerve in the psyche of the black community.
Uprisings for justice started in Minneapolis and spread quickly, reaching major cities around the country. This triggered celebrities and politicians to come divided on the subject of whether violence is the answer. But, the importance of Black People using a platform in situations that directly affect a marginalized group is key because there are few of us that will get to reach the stratosphere where we can reach the voices of millions.
How one uses that platform in critical situations can make or break the entire foundations of which they worked so hard to reach. Athletes in particular have been scrutinized for riding the fine line of advocating for social action, and sticking to the skill of their sport. But it’s impossible for a Black athlete to ignore injustices that they face, regardless of what sport they play or how much money they receive from their contract.
A Georgia Native and growing NBA Phenom decided to ignore the criticisms of those around him and took immediate action, driving 15 hours from Boston to Atlanta, proving that his city is bigger than what was portrayed by mainstream media outlets.
Celtics Forward, Jaylen Brown organized a peaceful protest in the span of less than a day. He’s no stranger to social action and fellowship to his peers, speaking at summits at MIT and Harvard. The Marietta native and Wheeler High School Alum planned to start the at the CNN Center, which was damaged the day before, and end at the Martin Luther King Junior Memorial Site.
With the high risk of the CNN Center being damaged again, the location was changed to the MLK Memorial Site, where people would gather between 5:30 and 6:30pm. Brown would emerge from the crowd of onlookers, where he would share words as to why he was compelled to organize the demonstration.
“You may know me as an athlete, entrepreneur, educator, philanthropist. But first and foremost I am a Black man.” Said Brown. “I’m not gonna speak on anything that’s not new, everything that we’re seeing and experiencing is something from decades, centuries, ages ago. So as a 23 year-old […] some people from other generations ‘gone have to bare with us.”
Brown would not shy away from his pride in being Black, whilst peacefully walking and chanting through the Historically Black Sweet Auburn District. Bystanders would cheer on the crowd marching down Auburn Avenue, through Georgia State University and finally stopping at the Georgia State Capitol Building.
“We can’t take no more! There’s no more cheeks left to turn!” Said Brown. “Since I was in high school all I’ve seen is Trayvon Martin, all I’ve seen is Oscar Grant […] that’s all I’ve seen! All I know is traumatic instances!”
Aside from Brown, fellow NBA player, Malcolm Brogdon and rapper, Lil Yachty would join Brown on the march through the streets of their home, giving positive remarks to the crowd.
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The protest was almost entirely peaceful, though three people were wrongfully arrested by the Atlanta Police Department, according to Brown. The motive was thought to be due to the risk the protesters were while occupying the streets of the empty Georgia State University Campus through the march.
Brown plans on assisting the three with legal fees, and continues to advocate against the horrors of police brutality.
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Going Digital: NFL & WNBA Drafts Put Up Record Numbers Virtually
The NFL and WNBA drafts put up record numbers through virtual broadcasts, showing potential in what the WNBA could be if the stage is set for them.
Tyasha Harris Drafted as the 7th Overall Pick to the Dallas Wings | Photo by G Fiume/Maryland Terrapins/Getty Images
By: Baigen Seawell
“For the first time in what feels like forever, a real live sporting event.” said ESPN Analyst, Schefter on the 2020 NFL Draft.
What Schefter failed to realize was his own employer broadcasted the first virtual draft on April 17, a week prior. The WNBA delivered their most watched draft in 16 years. The league garnered a viewership of 6.5 million, despite the new format and unsure expectations that would come along with it.
The fly-on-the-wall view into prospects’ homes, coaches and GMs makeshift workspaces, the virtual draft has been an interesting look into the ins and outs of how front offices make things happen despite everything going against them.
The WNBA
The WNBA saw a 237 percent increase in minutes watched from the previous year. Aside from the numbers, the 2020 WNBA Draft Class has some talent that people are eager to see on the court. Oregon’s Sabrina Ionescu would be the first pick, taking her talents to the New York Liberty. Ionescu, closed out with over 2,000 career points, and an all-time leader in assists, steals and triple-doubles.
Aside from Ionescu, and the Ducks, the University of South Carolina had back-to-back picks from their SEC Championship team. Mikiah Harrigan and Tyasha Harris take the sixth and seventh picks overall, going to Minnesota and Dallas Respectively.
The League would also take a moment to honorarily draft Alyssa Altobelli, Gianna Bryant, and Payton Chester, the three Mamba Academy teammates lost from the 2020 Calabasas Helicopter Crash. Bryant was the daughter of Laker Kobe Bryant, who also lost his life in the crash.
Though the WNBA is considered to gather less attention than the NFL, the success and growth in numbers from the League being put on the main stage is a testament to the longing for the return of sports. At the same time, it shows a potential in what the WNBA could be if the stage was set for them this way more.
The NFL
Six days later, the NFL opened their virtual draft with 15.6 million viewers. This broke the all-time viewership record. To add, the SEC would tally up a record number of 15 players in the first round alone.
The 2020 Draft Class highlights LSU Tiger and Heisman Trophy Winner Joe Burrow coming in as the first pick overall to Cincinnati. Alabama’s Henry Ruggs III would be the first pick to go to the newly relocated Las Vegas Raiders, and twelfth overall. The Packers go with an eye-opening pick, selecting Quarterback Jordan Love to join Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay.
The draft has gathered attention from sports fans anxiously waiting on sports to make its reappearance. Being one of the largest sports markets, the league is expected to start in late August. Questions are still up in the air with a few months until the final 53-man roster is finalized.
Where We Stand With Sports
Although we closed out with two sporting events in what seems like forever, we felt a sense of normalcy for a moment. However there isn’t a clear date of when sports like will come back. The WNBA was projected to start May 15, 2020 but with news of a second wave being ‘inevitable’ according to health officials, it is unclear.
To add, the WNBA has been making moves before and after the close of the draft. With player transactions still taking place, the uncertainty for WNBA basketball is apparent for front offices and players alike. But, if given the platform when given the all clear, they may garner the well deserved attention they’ve been battling for.
For the NFL, Goodell has met with political leaders on what may be the best way to keep the season on track while preserving the health of athletes and spectators. The timeline is a bit longer for them, but the uncertainty is still apparent, not wanting to come back too prematurely.
The NFL officially released the 2020 schedule. The WNBA and their male counterpart are still in limbo, with the NBA issuing voluntary practices with the lifting of quarantine practices in some states. Though it seems to be a glimmer of hope, players are reluctant to return, and sports fans are hopeful to see competition return swiftly and safely.
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High School Stars Are Signing With The NBA G League Setting The Stage For A New Trend
Three of the nation’s top high school basketball prospects have elected to take an alternative route to sign with the NBA’s G League instead of playing collegiately. Could this be the start of a new trend?
NBA Prospects Daishen Nix, Jalen Green, and Isaiah Todd
By: Omar Cook
Three of the nation’s top high school basketball prospects have elected to take an alternative route to sign with the NBA’s G League instead of playing collegiately. No. 1 prospect Jalen Green, No. 13 prospect Isaiah Todd, and now the 20th ranked prospect Daishen Nix, decommitted from UCLA to join his peers in the G-League. Nix is the first player to renege on his commitment after already signing his letter of intent.
"I think it was the right thing for me because it was a family thing and a myself thing," Nix told the Los Angeles Times. "Playing in G League is basically getting me ready for the NBA draft. It's just one step below the NBA."
This is significant because the NBA did away with allowing high school players to jump straight into the NBA which forced them to go to College for a year or play overseas. The effect has been players attending college for 1 season and leaving for the NBA creating a constant recruiting carousel for elite programs having to restock their team each season. Truth is, athletes were going to college just to fulfill the one year of eligibility that they needed for the NBA and not for educational purposes.
It will be s stretch to say that this will be a major blow to the NCAA, but just how much will this effect the NCAA revenue and viewers if more of the top prospects choose to go the alternative route? The NCAA is a billion dollar industry that feeds off the backs of collegiate athletes and justifies their compensation to the athletes in scholarships. Basically, free labor.
The G League gives high school players a new option to advance their skills against top level competition while also earning a salary for their talent. This could lead to a new trend of more elite high school athletes taking this route and possibly make the NCAA reconsider how it’s compensation rules towards its athletes.
Gone are the days of LeBron, Kobe, or Kevin Garnett leaving high school to be drafted, but the new normal could be high school to the G League! This is a win win for all high school athletes as they now have an option to go pro or continue their education.
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NFL Draft: ESPN Romanticizes Black Athletes' Tragedies On The Biggest Stage
The NFL draft was full of stories of overcoming adversity, but why does ESPN choose to romanticize the tragedies of Black athletes on the biggest stage? We discuss it here!
By: Baigen Seawell
With the constant news of the global pandemic, the NFL Draft was our escape…something to let us forget the craziness that was going on around us. But what’s up with all of the morbid backstories?
We start with Tua Tagovailoa, who struggled with injuries throughout his college career at Alabama. This started conversation on whether or not Miami would pass up on another QB opportunity like they did Drew Brees over two decades before.
The story of overcoming adversity made for a great narrative, we loved to see it.
But then it got weird…
The first comment I picked up on was at the 11th pick overall: Mekhi Becton, a 6’7” OT from from Louisville. The announcers pointed out his speed, size, followed up with a comment discussing his weight being linked to his mother’s occupation of catering in soul food.
This remark was insensitive, but wasn’t nearly as eye opening as the talking points that would follow.
Car accidents, coronavirus, conduct violations, drug addiction, ESPN and the NFL made it a point to highlight the tragic upbringing of as many prospects as possible, and nearly all of them were black.
At the close of the draft, there were over 20 tragic backstories from athletes. It would be posted at the bottom of athletes’ stat line like a trivial fun fact, and shock value would transform to desensitization.
But why are tragic backstories so clickbait?
THERE’S BEAUTY IN THE STRUGGLE
J. Cole said it best: “There’s beauty in the struggle.” The “Rags-to-Riches” story is as old as time. Tragedy and struggle are socially and psychologically linked and ingrained in media’s culture. A sense of satisfaction rushes over us when we see someone who faced so much hardship to achieve their goals.
Struggle brings more traffic to a story than privilege, especially in sports; we find interest in the rise, fall and rise again of a Vick over the streamline of a Manning or Rodgers. Though the latter faced some minor conflicts through their careers, the former has a much harrowing tale that becomes something that can have a full docuseries created around it.
Black athletes in particular face adversity regularly on their road to the top, and after the goal is met. Criticism from analysts, financial hardships, and on and off the field conduct add onto their troubled past. For them, it becomes fuel to go harder, and prove critics wrong, for mainstream media, it becomes an irresistible story, no matter how minor
This isn’t ESPN’s first time glamorizing tragedy; reporter Mina Kimes’ most popular story is DeAndre Hopkins’s mother, who was an exotic dancer, drug dealer, and finally, gruesomely faced an assault from her then-boyfriend’s mistress. It became one of the most talked about backstories in 2019, despite him Watson being in the league for six years already.
The Jerry Jeudys, Kristian Fultons and Jordan Loves were sprinkled with stories of tragedy, which overshadowed the largest success that they met for the night: being drafted by a league that only drafts less than five percent of the draft eligible population. Lest we forget where we came from on the way, but it’s not 100 percent of our makeup.
These men are more than their backstories, they’re not pinned to their stats on the field or their upbringing. There’s an importance of highlighting the successes and aspirations they have moving forward. Though tragedy makes a good backstory, triumph and continued success makes for something with a much better shelf life.
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Former NFL Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson Passes Away At 36
Former NFL quarterback Tarvaris Jackson passed away Sunday night in a car crash at the age of 36.
By: Omar Cook
Former NFL quarterback Tarvaris Jackson passed away Sunday night in a car crash at the young age of 36. The crash happened about 7 miles outside of Jackson's hometown of Montgomery, Alabama after his vehicle struck a tree and overturned. .Tarvaris Jackson spent 10 years in the NFL after being drafted 64th overall in 2006. Jackson spent time with the Minnesota Vikings and Seattle Seahawks after his college career at Alabama State University.
Jackson most recently served as the quarterbacks Coach at Tennessee State University.
"My heart is so heavy with hurt hearing of the passing of Coach Jackson," said Tennessee State director of athletics Teresa Phillips. "We were blessed with him for a short time but he did make an impact with our young men in this one season at TSU. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his young family and all who knew and loved him."
The Seahawks are stunned and heartbroken to learn of the tragic passing of legend Tarvaris Jackson.
— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) April 13, 2020
T-Jack earned the respect of the organization and teammates with his competitiveness, toughness and professionalism. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/4YApkKaVnh
Jackson finished his career with 7263 yards and 39 touchdowns in 59 career games. He won a Super Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks in 2013. Jackson is a major inspiration to many especially in the Black College football world after being one of the few Black quarterbacks to be drafted out of the SWAC conference and sustaining a lengthy NFL career.
Jackson is survived by his wife, Lakitta, and three children, Tarvaris, Takayla and Tyson.
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8 Sports Documentaries To Binge While You #StayAtHome
Here are 8 Sports Documentaries to quell your sports palate while you stay at home!
By: Baigen Seawell
While we adjust to the “new normal”, the world of sports comes to a screeching halt. Athletes at every level come to terms with the uncertainty of what to expect. Announcers and anchors have found solace in repurposing their studio around their home and family life, while still having time to check in and give glimmers of hope with an occasional sports update.
In the meantime, from a spectator’s standpoint, we get to be immersed with what could be considered the “Good Ol’ Days”. Games tracing back months, years, and decades prior; they bring waves of nostalgia to keep us occupied while we stay at home.
While I’ve been hunkered down, I’ve found interest in rewatching and discovering sports documentaries. Apart from reruns of games and SportsCenter highlights, documentaries give an in depth and personal look on the topic, while giving a cinematic vibe for the viewer.
Here’s 8 Sports Documentaries to quell your sports palate.
1. The Dark Side of the Ring - VICE
The Dark Side of the Ring gained traction with the covering of Chris Benoit, a Canadian wrestler who became overshadowed by the tragic murder-suicide now tied with his name. But VICE covers the likes of many wrestlers in the industry, from Tony Atlas, to Eddie Guerrero. For the unconventional sports buff, this may be the series for you.
2. The Death of Will Smith - VICE
The Death of NFL Star Will Smith covers the tragic and seemingly avoidable death of the New Orleans Saints Defensive End. Smith was a catalyst in the 2010 Saints Super Bowl run, who faced an untimely death over a roadside scuffle. VICE strictly covers the side of Cardell Hayes, the man behind the killing of smith for the majority of the documentary. The narrative discusses the “legal and local bias” against Hayes while digging up some touchy subjects in the process.
3. The Ghosts of Ole Miss - ESPN
The Ghosts of Ole Miss discusses the deep rooted history of racial segregation. Directly covering University of Mississippi and the integration of their first black student, James Meredith and the 1962 Ole Miss Riots. The story goes into detail of the history of Ole Miss, and the deep rooted racism at the time where Ole Miss went undefeated the year Meredith would enroll at the institution.
4. Benji: The True Story of a Dream Cut Short
Benjamin Wilson was a high school phenom out Simeon High School who was considering numerous offers at the height of his basketball career. He lost his life, while the basketball world could only imagine what could have been if he hadn’t been gunned down. Benji covers Wilson’s brief moment here on earth, along with highlighting his talents.
5. Without Bias - ESPN
ESPN covered the life of 1986 Draft Pick Len Bias, who would have been a Boston Celtics hopeful. Like Wilson, his career was cut short. With Bias dying from a drug overdose, the sports world would stop in its tracks. Without Bias paints the picture of the David Stern-Era, where basketball would gain a surge of popularity, along with having some of the biggest names to ever play in the game. Like Benji, we can only speculate of what could have been if Bias played in the league.
6. The Carter Effect - Netflix
In Toronto, Canada, basketball was not what it is today over two decades ago. It was also when Vince Carter would make his debut as a Raptor, virtually changing the face of basketball in the country rapidly. The Carter Effect features rapper and Toronto native, Drake, former NBA Guard, Steve Nash, and more to discuss the direct and quick growth, decline, disdain and forgiveness for Carter and his career starting out in the Six.
7. Let Them Wear Towels - ESPN (Nine for IX)
A personal favorite for me. Let Them Wear Towels is an ESPN Nine for IX, which directly discusses women’s rights and the evolution of women in the world of sports. The documentary follows numerous female pioneers in sports journalism. Though Sports Media is still a largely white male dominated field, we can appreciate the growth and diversity that chips away at the glass ceiling. Let Them Wear Towels shows how far we’ve come and how far we still have to go.
8. No No: A Dokumentary
No No is a doozie. This documentary is at the top of the list for a slew of reasons, from the backstory, to the shock and awe at the athletic prowess. It covers the life of Dock Ellis, an MLB pitcher who struggled with an addiction to amphetamines, and alcohol. More impressive, yet disturbing, Ellis pitched a no-hitter… on LSD. This documentary has a bunch of twists and turns to keep you satisfied.
There is your personal list of documentaries to intrigue you while you’re bored in the house and the house bored. Let me know what other documentaries you find interesting! And as always, stay safe!
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XFL Star P.J. Walker Journeys Back Into The NFL For A Second Chance
Former XFL quarterback P.J. Walker found himself back on an NFL roster with the Carolina Panthers after lighting up the XFL this past season. Will this be a breakout opportunity for the rising QB? We discuss it here!
P.J. Walker with the Houston Renegades
Troy Taormina - USA Today Sports
Former XFL quarterback P.J. Walker found himself back on an NFL roster as he signed a 2-year, 1.57 million contract with the Carolina Panthers. This news came about only a day after it was announced that Carolina had released their franchise quarterback, Cam Newton.
Although Walker made it to the NFL back in 2017, this upcoming 2020 season could be the first time that we actually get to watch him play in-game. Walker managed to get picked up as an undrafted free agent by the Colts shortly after the draft, but was eventually waived later that Fall and signed to the practice squad. Unfortunately he was the case of uncertainty, causing him to be on and off the practice squad for the next two years. Indianapolis eventually released Walker for good September 2, 2019.
Although things didn't quite work out for Walker during his time in the big league, he caught a less than surprising break as the newly formed XFL drafted him for the 2020 season. He was assigned to the Houston Roughnecks and led his team to an undefeated 5-0 season, which was cut short due to the Coronavirus outbreak.
P.J. Walker Scores For The Houston Renegades
Troy Taormina - USA Today Sports
Walker managed to become the big talk of the league, and deservingly so the frontrunner as the MVP favorite. He was named the XFL’s first ever Star of the Week with a four touchdown win, led the league in passing touchdowns with 15, and led the league in passing yards with 1,338 over only a 5 game span.
The XFL’s legitimacy was well solidified in its opening season, and even seen as a solid gateway league into the NFL. Although Walker was the first to be called upon, many others have found their names being called to the big league. Even with the season being cut short due to the coronavirus outbreak, five weeks were all that some players needed to stand out as potential NFL talent. To this date 14 XFL players have been signed by NFL teams.
Now, while Walker has recently gained some professional experience under his belt, his time back into the NFL will be far from a smooth welcoming. He’ll be battling for the starting quarterback role as Carolina also signed Teddy Bridgewater to a 3-year, $63 million deal. The former pro bowler hasn’t had the smoothest journey through the league but showed promising potential in being Carolina’s savior as he replaced Drew Brees, who suffered from a right thumb injury in week two. Bridgewater threw for 1,384 yards and 9 touchdowns, all of while collecting five straight game wins for the New Orleans Saints.
P.J. Walker gets Coaching from Matt Rhule at Temple
One advantage that Walker may have over Bridgewater is his connection to Carolina’s new head coach, Matt Rhule. Walker accepted an athletic scholarship to Temple University and played under coach Matt Rhule from 2013-2016. Walker started as a backup to Connor Reilly, but eventually earned the starting role. Throughout his collegiate career he collected multiple accolades, including the 2016 AAC Conference Championship Game Most Outstanding Player Award, CFPA National Player of the Year watch list, and Davey O’Brien Award watch list. Walker also holds most of the university’s records, such as all-time leader in wins by a starting quarterback, passing yards, passing touchdowns, completions, attempts, total yards, and total touchdowns. To cap it off, he led the owls to their first conference title in 49 years in 2016, and their first ever back to back bowl game appearance in school history in 2015 and 2016.
Walker would be filling in for some very big shoes as a starter for Carolina after they parted ways with their franchise quarterback Cam Newton. The former MVP took the Panthers to their first playoff win in nine years, first back to back division title in the NFC South, three consecutive playoff appearances, and led his team to only their 2nd Super Bowl with a 15-1 regular season record. He was nicknamed as “Superman”, and rightfully so, as he was not only the franchise hero, but a hero the city of Charlotte and the fans as well.
While P.J. Walker is not Superman, who's to say he can’t be Carolina’s knight in shining armor to save them from this bad dream?