5 Panthers players whose stock soared at 2022 mandatory minicamp

Matt Corral – Carolina Panthers QB

There were rumors aplenty at the start of mandatory minicamp as Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports reported that the Carolina Panthers were once again speaking with the Cleveland Browns about a trade for Baker Mayfield. The respected insider also declared that those in power within the organization had a sense of urgency to get something done sooner rather than later.

This was not ideal for Matt Corral or Sam Darnold before an important three days for both. However, they emerged with some credit and in the third-round pick’s case, there was a lot to like about the way he applied himself.

Corral made some impressive throws, was accurate, and is growing into a leadership role despite his lack of experience according to those in attendance. A good step forward for the Ole Miss product, but head coach Matt Rhule indicated there is still plenty of work ahead en route to potentially becoming a starting-caliber NFL quarterback.

Rhule and general manager Scott Fitterer will sit down in the coming days and determine once and for all whether to move forward with their current options or pull the trigger on Mayfield. A decision that will make of break Carolina’s 2022 season.

All this drama shouldn’t concern Corral too much. The Panthers have faith he can become the team’s long-term option, so getting better every day is the primary objective and whatever comes after that is a bonus.