4 ways Baker Mayfield can help the Carolina Panthers in 2022
By Jason Huber
What are some ways that new quarterback Baker Mayfield can help the Carolina Panthers in 2022 following his bombshell trade?
After a long offseason full of rumors and uncertainty at the quarterback position, the Carolina Panthers finally pulled the trigger on Wednesday, trading for Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield.
Carolina acquired the former No. 1 overall pick for only a conditional fifth-round selection and will only pay $5 million of his salary this upcoming season. Even if it doesn’t work, it’s still a win that the Panthers gave up almost nothing for his services.
While Mayfield has received plenty of criticism during his first few years in the NFL, he was the top pick in 2018 for a reason and flashed skills to be ‘the’ guy on occasions.
The Panthers have gone through a revolving door of quarterbacks since Cam Newton left town. There was no way fans could take the team seriously if they decided to let Sam Darnold start another year.
From Teddy Bridgewater to Darnold, to Newton, Carolina is hoping that Mayfield finally brings some stability under center. Even if it’s just for one year.
Mayfield is 29-30 in his four-year career and has definitely struggled since leading the Browns to the playoffs in 2020. But the Panthers obviously believe their roster can help him get back on track.
Whether it’s his talent or personality, Mayfield could light a fire within the Panthers at a time when head coach Matt Rhule needs it most.
With that being said, here are four ways that Mayfield can help the team this season.