4 Panthers players that must respond positively in Week 3 vs. Saints

Baker Mayfield – Carolina Panthers QB

Nobody was expecting Baker Mayfield to come in and be Lamar Jackson, Patrick Mahomes, or Josh Allen. However, the honeymoon period is seemingly over after two indifferent performances to begin his stint with the Carolina Panthers.

Mayfield faced an uphill battle after joining late via trade from the Cleveland Browns. He also had to split reps with Sam Darnold in training camp when everyone knew the answer to Carolina’s reported quarterback competition.

There are timing issues, a lack of chemistry, and communication difficulties stemming as a result. Mayfield is also suffering some trust issues inside the pocket behind an offensive line that looks much improved on the interior.

If there was ever a time for Mayfield to respond, it’s now. A divisional clash at home against one of the league’s better defenses who’ll be smelling blood in no uncertain terms.

The former Oklahoma star said all the right things once again this week. However, even head coach Matt Rhule is starting to realize that talk is cheap right now and the only thing that will alter perceptions is winning football.

Put up or shut up time. But make no mistake, Mayfield cannot do it alone.