4 major observations from the Carolina Panthers drafting Matt Corral
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers went against a Baker Mayfield trade
Speculation was rampant throughout the day surrounding a potential deal between the Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns for Baker Mayfield. The former No. 1 overall selection is now surplus to requirements after the team traded for Deshaun Watson and this represented an opportunity for Matt Rhule to get another veteran into the building for little in the way of compensation given the situation.
Much like the scenario surrounding whether the team would draft a signal-caller, opinions were reportedly divided within the war room. Many thought Mayfield could provide instant help behind a revamped offensive line, but there were some who thought moving up for Matt Corral represented the smarter alternative.
In the end, the Panthers passed on Mayfield, who is still searching for a new home entering Day 3 of the 2022 NFL Draft.
Considering the pressure on Rhule to win right now, this is a big risk. Carolina does have Sam Darnold and his fully guaranteed $18.85 million on the books, but there is absolutely no guarantee he can turn things around after a disastrous first season under center following his trade from the New York Jets.
This won’t matter much to Corral. What’s important for the third-round pick is focusing on what he can control, getting better every day, and taking advantage of opportunities when they arise.