Carolina Panthers QB Matt Corral staking his claim
Although the quarterback battle between Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold remains the focus of everyone’s attention, one cannot overlook the impression made by Matt Corral throughout camp so far. The third-round selection made his intentions clear about winning the starting job much sooner than anticipated and he’s done his chances no end of good with consistent performance levels to date.
Corral’s exceptionally fast release and overall composure under center left another positive impact on Saturday. He was flawless in some technical drills and looks more confident with every passing practice – something that provides the Ole Miss product with a solid foundation from which to build moving forward.
Second time today Matt Corral has splashed one in the net on a fade route drill.. pic.twitter.com/ExTor8xNBo
— Joe Person (@josephperson) July 30, 2022
This is all positive news for Corral. The Panthers drafted the signal-caller to be their long-term option under center and he’s done nothing to suggest that isn’t possible in the not-too-distant future.
Just how long that will take remains to be seen. Corral certainly has enough big game experience and the intangibles to become productive at the next level, but unseating Darnold and Mayfield from atop the depth chart remains his biggest stumbling block in the short term.
Corral has the mindset to take this challenge head-on. The talent is obviously there, but Carolina’s trade to acquire Mayfield might mean he’ll have to wait a little while longer before taking the top job.