Ranking the 9 potential Carolina Panthers starting QB options in 2022

Carolina Panthers could trade for Baker Mayfield

This is majorly out of the left field and the Carolina Panthers reportedly have no interest in Baker Mayfield. But what would be the harm in securing the player as a one-year rental that might turn into something more.

Mayfield has been criticized for his lack of leadership which spills over into petulance more often than not. The Cleveland Browns are clearly looking to get him off the books after trading for Deshaun Watson and signing Jacoby Brissett as their backup, so the Panthers should be able to get him for a satisfactory compensation package if they see fit.

Having a motivated Mayfield could be exactly what the Panthers need. The former No. 1 overall selection out of Oklahoma has proven production and a playoff victory – so he’s already accomplished far more than Sam Darnold – but playing hurt last season is a decision he’d probably like to have back and is a big factor behind what now appears to be an uncertain future.

The likelihood of Mayfield ending up in Carolina would be a bombshell at this stage. However, there don’t appear to be many other options for a player that’s flashed real brilliance at times during his career.

Carolina’s options are limited. Unless they go after a college prospect, then Mayfield could be the best option of all and if it doesn’t work out, the Panthers can release two out of the top three picks in 2018 at the same time – saving almost $38 million on their cap.