Carolina Panthers and Baker Mayfield’s timing issues
One of the biggest issues that the quarterback competition could potentially bring is a lack of chemistry between Baker Mayfield and his primary playmakers. Something that was evident on Monday and must now be addressed as a matter of urgency.
Aside from a beautiful connection with Mayfield and wide receiver D.J. Moore, there wasn’t much for the offense to shout about. The Carolina Panthers have a couple of weeks to hone this before they take the field in Week 1 against the Cleveland Browns, which is an instant chance for the Heisman Trophy winner to get revenge on the team that cast him aside this offseason.
Timing is going to improve as games and the season goes on. Mayfield is also set to play at least a quarter during Carolina’s preseason finale against the Buffalo Bills on Friday evening at Bank of America Stadium, which is also going to help an untold amount.
There isn’t much margin for error with the Panthers needing to get off on the right foot. But the impressive progress Mayfield’s made despite arriving to the franchise shortly before training camp is at least a solid foundation from which to build.
According to many in attendance on Monday, it was not great and timing remains a concern. However, the Panthers have now confirmed Mayfield as their starter, so giving him every possible rep before competitive games begin is an absolute necessity at this juncture.