4 major observations from Baker Mayfield’s third Panthers practice

Baker Mayfield still shaking off the rust

After not throwing for the majority of this offseason due to surgery on his non-throwing shoulder to repair a torn labrum, Baker Mayfield was always going to be a little rusty coming into training camp. Something that proved to be the case once again on Day 3.

The quarterback did make some impressive throws. But there were some obvious timing issues between Mayfield and his pass-catchers that need work in the coming weeks.

Mayfield spent most of the practice working with the second unit after enjoying first-team reps on Thursday. This chopping and changing might be fun for a while, but it could have some lingering implications the longer it goes on.

Now that the Panthers have Mayfield, they must put him in the best position to thrive.

Matt Rhule no doubt feels a close sense of attachment with Sam Darnold after sacrificing three draft picks – including the No. 38 overall selection in 2022 – to get him from the New York Jets. But he would be wise for this not to cloud his judgment when push comes to shove.

There is an urgency to Mayfield’s production in terms of getting the football downfield. The rhythm is getting there slowly, so it’ll be interesting to see how quickly this rust can shake off before Week 1 against the Cleveland Browns.