4 major observations from Baker Mayfield’s tenth Panthers practice

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.

Carolina Panthers got outstanding production from Baker Mayfield on Day 10

Whether it was the NFL Network cameras in attendance or the fact training camp will shortly draw to a close, there was a renewed swagger and an increase in production for the most part from Baker Mayfield on Day 10.

The quarterback fitted some outstanding throws into tight windows throughout. Mayfield made notable connections with Christian McCaffrey, Andre Roberts, Tommy Tremble, Shi Smith, Rashard Higgins, and Robbie Anderson during sessions, which caught the eye in no uncertain terms.

Mayfield’s velocity on each throw was another standout element of his overall performance. He’s also taking on board everything offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo and quarterbacks coach Sean Ryan are saying in pursuit of further improvements.

Matt Rhule might state that he’s focusing on the ‘competition’, but there is a clear gap developing between Mayfield and Sam Darnold. The Carolina Panthers had to refute an internet report that they were shopping the former USC star before practice, even if getting another team to take on a portion of his fully guaranteed $18.85 million is going to be a tough challenge.

The chemistry is getting better every day and the accuracy is also progressing for Mayfield. It was a really nice day, something that’s been in keeping with what we’ve seen over the last week.

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.

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.