4 major observations from Baker Mayfield’s tenth Panthers practice
By Dean Jones
What were some major observations from Carolina Panthers quarterback Baker Mayfield’s tenth practice with the team in training camp?
After a rest day to end the second week of training camp, the Carolina Panthers and quarterback Baker Mayfield got back down to business on Monday. This is the home stretch before camp breaks, so every rep means more than ever before the team’s first preseason game against the Washington Commanders this weekend.
Mayfield made a huge impression throughout his second official week of practice. His command under center improved with every passing day and there appears to be a growing sense of belief that he can lead the Panthers to improvements in 2022.
Matt Rhule seems intent on continuing the quarterback competition between Mayfield and Sam Darnold. Something that isn’t anticipated to be decided until after joint practices with the New England Patriots despite the obvious complications that could emerge in terms of cohesion.
That’s for the future and will fall on Rhule’s head, either way. With that being said, here are some major observations from Mayfield’s tenth practice with the Panthers at Wofford College.
Major Observation No. 1
Baker Mayfield sees the field well
Even though Baker Mayfield is still relatively new to the Carolina Panthers, he’s picking things up impressively. One thing that’s set the quarterback apart so far is his ability to see the field, recognize what the defense is doing, and react accordingly.
Mayfield looks composed more often than not under center. Obviously, this is relatively straightforward with a red shirt on rather than legitimate opposition flying at him, but it’s encouraging nonetheless.
The Oklahoma product’s decision-making is also coming along. It’s not perfect yet, which the two-minute drill to conclude practice demonstrated, but things are getting there quicker than anticipated.