4 major observations from Baker Mayfield’s tenth Panthers practice

Carolina Panthers are Baker Mayfield’s team now

There is a growing perception that the Carolina Panthers are Baker Mayfield’s team now.

Ian Rappaport of the NFL Network – who was in attendance for the practice – stated that it was his job to lose. This is a sentiment echoed by the wider media and a fanbase that is embracing their new signal-caller with every passing day.

You can just sense something. Whether that’s Mayfield preaching accountability within the locker room or the highlights he’s conjuring up on the field, it looks like QB1 in every sense of the word.

Winning over his teammates was always going to be half the battle. They’d probably heard about the accusations surrounding Mayfield’s immaturity and childish approach, which hasn’t been seen in the slightest over his first few weeks with the franchise.

As for Mayfield, he’s gradually integrating himself. So it’s finding the right balance between having fun and getting things absolutely spot on before the regular season commences.

"“On the practice field, trying to make sure I handle my business, but in the locker room and stuff like that, it’s about having fun with these guys. That’s why we’re down here at Wofford and training camp to push each other and play.”"

Sam Darnold’s had a decent camp. But even his most loyal supporter would probably concede a backup role looks set for his immediate future in 2022.