3 reasons the Carolina Panthers are stalling on Baker Mayfield trade

Carolina Panthers have other options

Baker Mayfield is not the only option if the Carolina Panthers decided to go through with bringing another quarterback on board before the 2022 season. Something else that might be delaying the No. 1 overall selection in 2018 from finding a new home.

The Panthers probably want to see a little more of where Sam Darnold and Matt Corral are at first. General manager Scott Fitterer recently revealed that the lines of communication remain open with Cam Newton, although nothing concrete has come to light as yet.

Another name that’s been linked heavily to Carolina this offseason is Jimmy Garoppolo. The former second-round pick is expected to be ready for training camp after undergoing shoulder surgery recently and the San Francisco 49ers declared that they expect the veteran to be traded sooner rather than later.

Much like the situation with Mayfield, a financial comprise would need to be reached before this move gets sanctioned. Garoppolo is set to count $26.95 million against the cap on the final year of his contract, which would max the Panthers out unless they could somehow throw Darnold into the trade.

Carolina is currently in a game of chicken with the Browns. But they do have alternatives if Cleveland doesn’t relinquish their grip on what they think is a suitable deal.