5 crucial observations from Carolina Panthers 2022 camp reporting day

Matt Corral is keen to make an instant impression

Baker Mayfield’s arrival via trade with just a few weeks until training camp completely shifted the dynamic for Matt Corral. The third-round selection went from someone that could potentially start at some stage as a rookie to possibly being redshirted over his first NFL season.

Not exactly ideal, but Corral was always seen as a long-term project and it should have come as no surprise to see the Carolina Panthers bring Mayfield on board – a veteran that provides them with a better chance of winning right now.

Corral’s taking everything in his stride. But there is a steely determination within the former Ole Miss standout when it comes to improving gradually en route to assuming starting responsibilities over time.

This is the right mindset for Corral. It’s not up to him who starts and when, but the signal-caller can force the issue if everything comes together quicker than anticipated.

Those within the Panthers were extremely high on Corral during their pre-draft evaluations. However, the pressure to progress in 2022 was too much to refuse in getting Mayfield for minimal compensation and just $5 million guaranteed.

Only time will tell as to whether or not this was the right call to make. But in Corral, the Panthers at least have someone that can emerge as a franchise player beyond the current campaign.