3 areas Baker Mayfield must improve after Week 1 of Panthers camp

Carolina Panthers QB Baker Mayfield must improve playbook knowledge

Ben McAdoo‘s offensive scheme is known for being complex. The Carolina Panthers are banking on this being the key that unlocks the team’s potential after some notable upgrades, but it all depends on how quickly Baker Mayfield can immerse himself in the scheme with time rapidly becoming of the essence.

As stated previously, Mayfield arrived late in the offseason after the Panthers decided to wait it out and get a good deal for the signal-caller. That’s left some complications when it comes to learning the playbook, even though the Heisman Trophy winner has been working exceptionally hard to get himself up to speed.

The Panthers have thrown plenty of work Mayfield’s way, although they remain intent on splitting first-team reps with Sam Darnold as Matt Corral waits in the wings. Every rep counts in this scenario, so it might be wise to move their recent acquisition to the forefront in the pursuit of putting him in the best possible position to thrive.

Mayfield will be learning as he goes, which could transition over into the regular season. Even though it’s not ideal, it’s the risk Carolina was willing to take rather than overpay for a player that was no longer needed by the Cleveland Browns.

Again, this all comes with experience, time on the field, and commitment from the player. Mayfield’s attitude hasn’t been in question so far as he continues to shake the rust off, but there is much work ahead under the biggest of microscopes.