4 major observations from Baker Mayfield’s fifth Panthers practice
By Dean Jones
Baker Mayfield is focused on the Carolina Panthers and nothing else
Almost inevitably, Baker Mayfield fielded a couple of questions about Deshaun Watson’s six-game suspension after practice came to a conclusion. Not entirely surprising when one considers this is the man replacing him on the Cleveland Browns after their controversial pursuit of the signal-caller was successful.
Watson has now settled most of his civil suits relating to sexual misconduct. And many believe the former Clemson standout is getting off extremely lightly given that he wasn’t even fined as part of the ruling.
However, that is far from Mayfield’s mind right now. Even though he probably feels aggrieved by the way he was treated by the organization and especially as he played from Week 2 onwards with a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder last time around.
When probed with a Watson question, Mayfield answered it professionally, stating that he was interested in getting better with the Carolina Panthers and not much else at the present time. This also consists of the potential for instant revenge against the Browns in Week 1 at Bank of America Stadium.
"“Honestly it’s none of my business. I don’t play against the other quarterbacks. It might be cliche to say, but it’s the truth. I’m game-planning against their defense. If I’m playing, I’m trying to help this team win, so I have to keep getting better.”"
Being bitter and throwing shade is not going to do Mayfield any favors. Although the No. 1 overall selection in 2018 will have an inner fire to prove the team that cast him aside wrong right out of the gate.