4 major observations from Baker Mayfield’s first practice as Panthers starter

What were some major observations from Carolina Panthers quarterback Baker Mayfield’s first practice as the team’s official starter?

It seemed inevitable to many. But the Carolina Panthers ended their summer-long quarterback competition by confirming Baker Mayfield as their No. 1 option before practice on Monday.

This came after an extremely smooth transition to a different environment. Mayfield has embraced this latest chance to shine following his trade from the Cleveland Browns, integrating superbly within the locker room and also picking up the playbook well in a short space of time.

There is a lot of hard work ahead with only a few short weeks before Mayfield goes up against his old team in Week 1. The Panthers took another calculated risk by acquiring the Oklahoma product and splitting reps in camp, but now is the time to fully focus with a view to hitting the ground running in 2022.

With that being said, here are four major observations from Mayfield’s first practice as the team’s official QB1 on Monday.

Major Observation No. 1

Rough day for the Carolina Panthers’ offense

Perhaps it wasn’t the best timing, but Baker Mayfield and the Carolina Panthers’ offense had arguably their most disjointed day since the opening week of training camp according to media in attendance. The defense came away with multiple big plays and the signal-caller also threw a pick-six that was expertly brought in by cornerback Jaycee Horn.

Mayfield has split reps with Sam Darnold throughout the offseason. Something that’s going to come with days like this and especially considering how talented Carolina’s defense is once some early momentum is generated.

Much work is ahead for Mayfield and the offense. But that’s something almost everyone is fully aware of.