4 reasons to be excited about the 2022 Carolina Panthers
By Preston Seyl
Carolina Panthers have Baker Mayfield
Baker Mayfield will bring a whole different vibe to the Carolina Panthers locker room. The quarterback also has a massive chip on his shoulder after poor production in 2021 and how the Cleveland Browns treated him on the way out.
Mayfield’s presence has the scope to change everything. His fierce mentality could rub off on the whole team, which is the sort of fire and energy that’s been missing since Cam Newton’s departure.
A healthy and motivated Mayfield could see him play at a much higher level in 2022. Couple this with a strong supporting cast and the Panthers made him a big priority this offseason when most around the league looked the other way, and it’s not hard to see the Oklahoma product doing well.
If the offense can stay healthy at every position, for the most part, then Mayfield can bounce back in fine style. In Ben McAdoo’s system, he will thrive as a pocket passer and if some play-action concepts carry over from the Cleveland Browns and there is a lot to like about this fit.
McAdoo’s scheme gets the ball out quickly, which will suit Mayfield down to the ground. Providing he can put his primary playmakers in space, they have the tools to make things happen.
Mayfield won the quarterback competition with Sam Darnold comfortably. But what comes next will be vitally important for the signal-caller during a possible road to redemption next season that begins with a pivotal Week 1 clash against the team that traded him just before camp.