4 critical areas that can help Panthers QB Baker Mayfield shine in 2022

Carolina Panthers must dominate on defense

It’s not just the offensive side of things that can help Baker Mayfield in 2022. The Carolina Panthers are also expecting big things from their defense after Phil Snow’s unit flashed potentially elite qualities last season before fading down the stretch.

Even though the Panthers lost some key veterans in free agency, there is a lot to like about the energy on all three levels. Concerns remain about the pass-rush without Haason Reddick and the middle linebacker position, but Carolina’s secondary could be among the league’s best under the expert guidance of defensive backs coach Steve Wilks.

Shaq Thompson and Frankie Luvu provide leadership and energy from the second level. So if this defense can provide the Panthers with key stops and good field position, it’s going to assist Mayfield enormously.

Sam Darnold and the inept production on offense left the defense tired and weary being on the field for so long. Something that must change this time around if the Panthers want to emerge as a surprise wildcard contender.

One side of the football cannot do it without the other. And with so much at stake for the Panthers in 2022, they need every single roster member pulling in the same direction.