3 Panthers players with most to prove in Week 4 vs. Cardinals

Baker Mayfield – Carolina Panthers QB

If last weekend was do or die for Baker Mayfield, it failed to provide the urgency needed to put up a better performance. The quarterback was once again erratic in the pocket and couldn’t get anything going in the passing game until Lavisa Shenault Jr. caught a short route and turned it into a 67-yard touchdown, which saved the signal-caller’s day from a statistical standpoint.

There is growing concern about Mayfield making the most out of another starting chance. Things weren’t easy for the Oklahoma product this offseason, but it just isn’t clicking for prolonged periods despite a strong running game and an offensive line that looks to be much improved.

Thankfully for Mayfield, the Carolina Panthers are going up disappointing Arizona Cardinals’ secondary this weekend. Something he must take advantage of in pursuit of finally putting in the performance needed to inspire confidence.

Slowing everything down, trusting his protection, and learning to take what the defense gives him will be the best way for Mayfield to improve. Whether he’s got what it takes to make this happen is another matter.

Mayfield cannot afford another inept outing in front of Carolina’s home support. So the player must turn his steely determination into production when it counts to quash the doubts surrounding his long-term hopes with the Panthers or elsewhere.