4 major surprises from Carolina Panthers 2022 training camp so far

Carolina Panthers QB Baker Mayfield’s smooth transition

Most of the focus in training camp over the first two weeks has been the quarterback competition. The Carolina Panthers are intent on making this a legitimate battle for the No. 1 job, which has brought increased tempo and urgency between Sam Darnold, Baker Mayfield, and third-round selection Matt Corral.

Mayfield’s arrival brought a newfound sense of intrigue. The Panthers finally got their man before camp after waiting for a good deal, but this left questions about how quickly the Oklahoma product would pick things up before suiting up against his old team in Week 1.

There was some obvious rust over the first week. Since then, Mayfield has risen to the occasion in no uncertain terms and seems to be picking up what’s expected within Ben McAdoo’s scheme in an encouraging fashion.

There is much work to do, obviously. But there seems to be a different atmosphere whenever Mayfield is under center and hopefully, this can provide the Panthers with a much-needed spark when competitive action arrives.

Carolina has yet to name Mayfield as the starter, even though it looks like a foregone conclusion at this point. Just what that means for Darnold is uncertain, but the Panthers clearly have a much better chance to win with the Heisman Trophy winner manning the plate.