4 major observations from Baker Mayfield’s preseason debut

Baker Mayfield’s chemistry with Shi Smith

Although it was a very small taste of what Baker Mayfield could bring to the Carolina Panthers, it was encouraging to see the quarterback continue developing chemistry with a wide receiver that could have a sneaky part to play in 2022.

Shi Smith was prominent throughout Mayfield’s opening drive, bringing in two receptions to move the chains thanks to a combination of nice play-calling, good distribution, and smooth route running. Something that was seldom seen from the former sixth-round selection last time around.

It was a rookie campaign littered with frustrations for Smith. But he’s made a strong impression throughout camp and this additional cohesion with Mayfield is something that further enhances his chances of more involvement as a sophomore.

Mayfield seemed confident in Smith’s ability to generate yards under pressure. At a time when Carolina’s pass-catchers need consistency more than ever, this could be a surprise some teams won’t see coming in a competitive environment.

Obviously, Mayfield will prefer others as the season goes on. But with D.J. Moore, Terrace Marshall Jr., and Christian McCaffrey sitting out the game, the South Carolina product did his hopes of additional targets no harm at all.