4 key observations from Baker Mayfield’s first Panthers presser

What were some key observations from Carolina Panthers quarterback Baker Mayfield’s first official media engagements?

Baker Mayfield is officially a member of the Carolina Panthers after his high-profile trade to the organization was officially confirmed on Tuesday. It’s been a whirlwind few days for the quarterback after months of speculation surrounding his future, but the former Oklahoma standout can now start focusing on football for the first time in a while.

The Panthers are confident Mayfield can be the guy that propels this team from also-rans into a potential wild card berth in 2022. Everything has to go right before this scenario comes to fruition and the signal-caller also has to put a down year last time around firmly in the rearview mirror before embarking on a fresh start.

As is normally the case, Mayfield spent time speaking with Panthers’ reporters and the wider media as part of his opening engagements. Something that’s already generated a significant amount of headlines and added further intrigue to the 2022 campaign.

With this in mind, here are four key observations from Mayfield’s availability to the media.

Major Observation No. 1

Baker Mayfield is fully healed and ready to go

One could potentially give Baker Mayfield a pass for last season, which he played with a torn labrum in his shoulder from Week 2 onwards. This was a gamble that did not pay off for the player or the Cleveland Browns, who opted to go in a completely different direction once Deshaun Watson became available.

Mayfield had surgery to repair the damage on his non-throwing shoulder once the campaign came to a conclusion. After a significant amount of rehabilitation, the Heisman Trophy winner revealed that he’ll be healthier than he’s been for a long time in training camp.

This is in keeping with Mayfield passing his physical last week. So it’s all systems go for the quarterback with a significant point to prove next season.