4 major observations from Baker Mayfield’s eighth Panthers practice
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers split Baker Mayfield’s reps again
After those in power within the Carolina Panthers reportedly held a personnel meeting on Thursday to discuss the current state of camp and how each roster member is performing, it was widely expected that Baker Mayfield would receive the large majority of starting reps with the first unit.
However, this was not the case as head coach Matt Rhule continues with his quarterback ‘competition’.
Mayfield saw plenty of time with the 1s, but he was once again mixing things up with Sam Darnold, who had a nice day overall. Just how much longer this goes on is a huge question mark, with this approach beginning to become the subject of criticism.
Getting "Trevor Lawrence will split 1st team reps with Gardner Minshew" vibes here a la our old pal Urban
— Matthew Betz (@TheFantasyPT) July 28, 2022
We all know Darnold is not the answer, why would you not give every snap to Baker to give your team the best chance to to build chemistry in camp? #Bad coaching https://t.co/R9XirLV8GR
Overcomplicating things is something Rhule is renowned for in various positional groups.
While extra competition can be good, we are now in the end stages of camp with four more practices scheduled before the team descends on Bank of America Stadium for the eagerly-anticipated Fan Fest. Restricting Mayfield for much longer has the scope to complicate matters when the season gets underway, but this is evident at the center position and the left tackle spot, too.
Everything is in position for Rhule and the Panthers to make strides in 2022. But the one deciding factor will be the former Baylor man not getting in his own way.