Baker Mayfield is officially the starting quarterback for the Carolina Panthers, which was the only choice ahead of a crucial 2022 season.
It might have been obvious to many, but having official confirmation of Baker Mayfield‘s status for the 2022 season was comforting, nonetheless. The quarterback’s transition following his high-profile trade from the Cleveland Browns was outstanding and left the Carolina Panthers with no option other than to name him their starter despite a spirited effort from Sam Darnold throughout an eventful offseason period for both players.
While a long-term injury to Matt Corral means Darnold’s spot on the depth chart is guaranteed, it does not detract from the newfound buzz across the Panthers now Mayfield is the guy. There is still a lot of hard work ahead before Week 1, leaving the Oklahoma product little time to fully develop chemistry after splitting reps throughout camp and beyond.
Whether this is going to hinder Carolina’s chances of putting better results on the board is debatable. The stakes are high for Matt Rhule in his third season, so Mayfield could be the spark he needs to alleviate concerns about his own future.
With that being said, here are some reasons why Mayfield was the right and only choice for Panthers QB1 next season.
Reason No. 1
Baker Mayfield’s alpha demeanor has impressed the Carolina Panthers
Much was made of Baker Mayfield’s character after his trade was confirmed. Stories emanating from the Cleveland Browns deemed the quarterback as childish and immature – traits that couldn’t be further from the truth based on what we’ve seen during his brief time with the Carolina Panthers.
Mayfield has an alpha demeanor. Supreme confidence in his own ability that hasn’t been seen under center since Cam Newton, which has left a positive impression on coaches and players alike.
Getting everyone in the locker room on board was a big-time objective for Mayfield. Something he’s managed to accomplish much sooner than anticipated.
Baker Mayfield provides the Carolina Panthers with purpose
As stated previously, Sam Darnold gave it his all this offseason and enjoyed a solid camp. The eventual outcome didn’t go his way, but the USC product should also be commended for his sterling attitude in the face of adversity.
However, there was just something different when Baker Mayfield was under center.
More energy.
More conviction.
More purpose.
It wasn’t perfect at times. But the Carolina Panthers knew this was always going to be a work in progress where Mayfield was concerned after waiting for a good deal regarding a player deemed surplus to requirements on the Cleveland Browns.
Mayfield’s 2020 production would be a significant upgrade on anything Carolina’s had since Matt Rhule took charge. And there did appear to be far more belief from everyone when it was the Heisman Trophy winner’s time to get reps.
If Mayfield can develop further chemistry by getting the bulk of first-team snaps before the regular season, then confidence will only grow. It’s also worth remembering he’s already won around the likes of Robbie Anderson, who made no secret of his thoughts about the trade before it was rubber-stamped.
Baker Mayfield gives the Carolina Panthers hope
Hope.
It’s been a long time since Carolina Panthers fans had that.
Cam Newton provided some after his bombshell return to the team last season. Even though things didn’t go according to plan in difficult circumstances for the former NFL MVP, it showed just how much one man can completely transform the atmosphere across the franchise.
While Baker Mayfield might never be held in the same esteem as Newton within the fanbase, his presence as the starting quarterback brings hope that things can start getting better after years of mediocrity or underachievement.
Some remain skeptical about the trade, and rightfully so. The current regime has done little to inspire confidence in their ability to successfully evaluate pro quarterbacks since their arrival, after all.
But something just feels different with Mayfield compared to Sam Darnold and Teddy Bridgewater. Acquiring the No. 1 overall selection in 2018 represents another big gamble, but one that could pay off in the best possible way if everything goes well early.
Mayfield is highly motivated and boasts proven production in clutch situations. There don’t appear to be any lingering effects from the surgery to repair a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder, which means it’s all systems go for a potential road to redemption.
Carolina has hope with Mayfield. That might make all the difference when it’s all said and done.