Carolina Panthers interim head coach Perry Fewell announced the latest change to the roster by naming rookie Will Grier the starting quarterback for Sunday’s game, against the Indianapolis Colts. Grier, a third-round pick from West Virginia University is eager for his first career start.
“I’m extremely excited just to be able to get that game experience,” Grier said during a press conference on Thursday.
Fewell determined after six straight losses with Kyle Allen at quarterback that it was time to give Grier his playing time. As the backup quarterback since Cam Newton was injured at the beginning of the season, Grier has spent time developing his skills and transitioning from collegiate to professional play.
For instance, Grier has developed an understanding of the Panthers playbook and that he doesn’t always have to throw the ball even though he has a strong arm, some plays will involve handing the ball off. Fewell and Scott Turner both stated that Grier’s success will lie in “taking what the defense gives him.”
Grier’s teammates, the first-teamers, are also excited for his first start and some of them recalled their first career starts, eager to help Grier have a successful first game on the road in a loud environment as it takes the other 10 players doing their parts, as well.
Ready to go 👊 pic.twitter.com/Lz7iKhz9YG
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) December 19, 2019
