4 major observations from Baker Mayfield’s seventh Panthers practice

What were some major observations from Carolina Panthers quarterback Baker Mayfield’s seventh practice following his trade to the organization?

There appears to be some momentum building around Baker Mayfield. The Carolina Panthers are expecting big things from the quarterback following his trade from the Cleveland Browns and his notable improvements throughout padded practices so far have left many reasons to be encouraged about a potential bounce-back campaign in 2022.

The aura and excitement surrounding Mayfield is something the Panthers haven’t had since Cam Newton was at the peak of his powers. While expecting him to have a similar impact is unlikely, all Carolina wants is stable production and for the signal-caller to become somebody that propels this team rather than hinders it.

After so much uncertainty under center since Matt Rhule was appointed head coach, the Panthers need inspiration. And based on recent efforts, Mayfield might be the guy that finally gets this franchise trending in the right direction.

With this in mind, here are four major observations from Mayfield’s seventh Panthers practice on Wednesday.

Major Observation No. 1

Baker Mayfield putting in extra work with Carolina Panthers WR

One of the most noticeable elements occurred after practice and further highlighted how much Baker Mayfield is willing to do in pursuit of making this opportunity with the Carolina Panthers count. The quarterback was spotted after the session putting in additional reps with wide receiver Robbie Anderson, who has also come on leaps and bounds throughout the second week of camp.

Much was made about Anderson’s comments about the Panthers securing the trade. But in all honesty, this might actually be a good thing for the Temple product given his ability to stretch the field and Mayfield’s renowned arm strength.

This is a sign that everyone is pulling in the same direction, despite what some might tell you. Hopefully, Mayfield and Anderson’s blossoming relationship can transition into the regular season ahead of a crucial Year 3 for head coach Matt Rhule.

Carolina Panthers got another good day from Baker Mayfield

We are starting to see some momentum building for Baker Mayfield over a consistent period of time. The quarterback has easily been the best signal-caller operating under center throughout Week 2 and is pulling well clear in the race to become QB1 for the Carolina Panthers for their season opener against the Cleveland Browns.

It was another good day for Mayfield on Wednesday. His relationship with D.J. Moore is coming along nicely and although he spent time working with the second unit, this also saw the Oklahoma product make these reps count with a touch throw to Terrace Marshall Jr. that was expertly brought in.

https://twitter.com/Panthers/status/1554865143326146560

It just feels different when Mayfield is under center. There is a big chip on his shoulder and renewed purpose to prove those that wrote him off this offseason wrong, which begins with a high-profile clash against the team that deemed the former first-round selection surplus to requirements thanks to their successful and controversial pursuit of Deshaun Watson.

There also appears to be a growing belief among the playing staff that Mayfield is the guy. Although most tow the party line during their media availability, one cannot help but notice this element from highlights and documentation from reporters in attendance at Wofford College.

Mayfield will face far sterner tests in the coming days – most notably when scrimmages and joint practices with the New England Patriots get underway – but it’s been very positive overall and the seventh session was yet more proof.

Baker Mayfield’s timing was on point

The first few practices involving Baker Mayfield came with some rust. This was to be expected when one considers how much football the quarterback missed during the offseason and his surgery to repair a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder.

Mayfield had some hits and misses throughout Week 1. However, the No. 1 overall selection in 2018 now looks back in the swing of things and this is something that’s seen timing improve exponentially with his primary pass-catchers throughout the week.

The ever-enhancing connection between Mayfield and his route-runners was something that caught the eye on Wednesday according to Sheena Quick of FOX Sports Radio1340, who stated that the timing gap is now “nonexistent“.

"“The improvement of Baker’s timing with his receivers is on full display. The gap is nonexistent.”"

This is all positive where Mayfield is concerned. There are some things to work on in the coming weeks as the signal-caller familiarizes himself further with the playbook, but it’s hard to deny he’s coming on better than anticipated given the short timeframe.

If this continues into Week 3 of training camp, then the Panthers’ quarterback ‘competition’ is a foregone conclusion.

Carolina Panthers must name Baker Mayfield QB1

The time to name Baker Mayfield as the Carolina Panthers’ starting quarterback has arrived.

If not officially, then expect the pendulum to swing towards the player getting more first-team reps next week as the coaching staff finalizes the first-team and depth chart pieces before their opening preseason games.

Mayfield has been clearly the best performer under center. Sam Darnold has had his moments and rookie Matt Corral also looks like a player with promise during limited reps, but the decision to acquire the signal-caller seems to be bringing improved production more often than not.

It hasn’t been awkward between the quarterbacks. Darnold handled things professionally and Mayfield’s come in with purpose, but it’s clear for all to see that barring injury their new addition will be manning the plate throughout the regular season.

Just what this means for Carolina’s chances is another question. But there is no doubt Mayfield is the frontrunner and the more starting reps he can generate between now and Week 1, the better his and the team’s chances will be.

The Panthers seem intent on moving forward with this competition. For how much longer when Mayfield is the obvious answer remains to be seen.