4 teams who could beat the Panthers to Baker Mayfield if released

Carolina Panthers could lose Baker Mayfield to the Vikings

This would be completely out of the blue and an absolute bombshell whichever way one looks at it. But the Minnesota Vikings could also be a dark horse to pursue Baker Mayfield if he is eventually released by the Cleveland Browns.

ESPN’s NFL insider Dan Graziano also highlighted this potential move recently, but it was via trade rather than exploring any potential free-agent scenario.

The Vikings gave Kirk Cousins an extension this offseason that keeps him under contract until 2024, but if the former Michigan State star regressed in any way, it might force the new regime in Minnesota to go in a different direction.

"“They’re set this season with Kirk Cousins but could move on from him after the year. This is an example of a place where Mayfield or (Jimmy) Garoppolo wouldn’t start right away but could position himself as the team’s starter in 2023, the way Winston did with the Saints in 2020.”"

The Vikings have Kellen Mond, who got a rough shake from departed head coach Mike Zimmer during his rookie campaign and it remains to be seen whether or not the Texas A&M product can bounce back. Adding Mayfield gives them a far superior backup option that could end up becoming their starter depending on how Cousins performs.

It’s unlikely that the Carolina Panthers are too worried about the Vikings in this scenario. But showing conviction to guarantee his services would be the best course of action if they are steadfast in their belief that Mayfield is the guy to transform the franchise.