4 major observations from Baker Mayfield’s tenth Panthers practice

Baker Mayfield focused on making the Carolina Panthers better

There were inevitable questions centering on the quarterback competition and how Baker Mayfield is perceiving things so far after practice. Although he might be the clear frontrunner to many, the Heisman Trophy winner is taking absolutely nothing for granted as he looks to make the most out of this second chance.

Mayfield stated to reporters that his primary focus is on improving individually and making the Carolina Panthers better before things get more serious during the regular season. This is the right mentality to have, especially given the close connection between Matt Rhule and Sam Darnold following last season’s high-profile trade.

Rhule praised Mayfield after the session for the work he’s putting in. Ignoring the outside noise seems to be second nature to the No. 1 overall selection in 2018 after a colorful career to date, so these previous experiences are clearly serving him well in a different environment.

Based on the production and performance in camp, Mayfield is the better option. Considering the compensation involved, the Panthers might have gotten a good deal for once at the most important position on the field.

Obviously, nobody knows for sure until Mayfield comes through that tunnel at Bank of America Stadium for what promises to be an emotionally charged occasion against his old team. But there is far more hope now than when the trade was confirmed.