Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold will start the season on injured reserve due to an ankle injury.
The team announced the move on Thursday, allowing them to open a roster spot heading into the regular season.
Darnold will have to sit out at least the first four games of the season.
The Panthers made the decision prior to their final preseason game that Baker Mayfield would be the starter in the regular season.
During the preseason finale on Aug. 26, however, Darnold was carted off the field in the third quarter with an ankle injury.