Panthers' Cam Newton: Demoted to backup role

Sam Darnold will move into a backup role Sunday against the Saints after head coach Matt Rhule named Sam Darnold the Panthers' Week 17 starting quarterback, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

Darnold replaced Newton after the first quarter of Sunday's 32-6 loss to Tampa Bay, though the 32-year-old did re-enter the game at various points. Newton could still have a role in the game plan Week 17, especially near the goal line, but any limited fantasy appeal is gone now that he's not starting and playing the majority of the snaps.