Which Carolina Panthers players will be key to helping new quarterback Baker Mayfield shine in 2022?
The Carolina Panthers upgraded at the quarterback position by acquiring former No. 1 overall pick Baker Mayfield from the Cleveland Browns, ending months of speculation and searching for an upgrade on Sam Darnold.
Mayfield has had his ups and downs during his first four seasons in the league. But the signal-caller will look to return to his 2020 form where he threw 3,533 yards and 26 touchdowns with just eight interceptions, ultimately leading the Browns to their first playoff win since 1994.
The former Oklahoma standout dealt with numerous injuries in 2021, which could be the reason his statistics and play declined. He even soldiered on through a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder.
Carolina has confidence that Mayfield can bring the right sort of characteristics to the team. General manager Scott Fitterer was also hugely impressed by the player’s attitude based on his comments during media availability following the trade.
What comes next is down to Mayfield. But he’ll also need help from others within the locker room on his potential road to redemption.
In hopes that Mayfield returns to this production, here are five key Panthers players to help him shine in 2022.