4 major observations from Baker Mayfield’s fifth Panthers practice

Baker Mayfield was exceptional throughout

One could make a strong case that Monday’s practice was the best from Baker Mayfield since joining the Carolina Panthers. The quarterback was going up against the second-string unit working with the 2s throughout, but his poise and decision-making were nothing short of outstanding almost from start to finish.

This was reflected during red-zone and 11-on-11 drills, with Mayfield connecting with the likes of Shi Smith, Rashard Higgins, and Stephen Sullivan on notable plays. His efficiency in getting into the end-zone was another impressive element of the practice, which is the clearest sign yet that the signal-caller is starting to pick up Ben McAdoo’s scheme.

Mayfield said to reporters after practice that it remains a work in progress after arriving in Carolina pretty late in the offseason. Even if things aren’t quite where the player would like them to be just yet.

"“For me, it’s obviously not second nature yet, but I’m trying to make those steps toward you learn the reads well enough to where it’s a reaction to get through the progressions and knowing where to go. Last week was definitely slower than I would like it to be, but that’s to be expected. Looking to make some steps this week with repeated calls and get better.”"

If this is the sign of things to come, then the Panthers will be better for it. Much will depend on how Mayfield performs against the first-string defense in the coming days, but there is now a solid platform from which to build.