4 remaining scenarios facing Panthers QB Baker Mayfield in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers demote Baker Mayfield to 3rd string
There is another scenario that would be nothing short of disastrous for Baker Mayfield.
He is obviously not the only quarterback making a return to health in the not-too-distant future. The Carolina Panthers are also welcoming back Sam Darnold, who’s been on injured/reserve with an ankle injury of his own suffered during the preseason, throwing another spanner in the works behind P.J. Walker.
Steve Wilks stated that it’s a brand-new evaluation with every player under his leadership. If Darnold shows more than Mayfield in practice when up to full speed, then there’s a good chance this summer’s marquee acquisition is relegated to a third-string role for Carolina’s remaining games.
Again, this was an inconceivable notion once upon a time. But the simple fact is Mayfield just didn’t do enough as the Panthers’ starter to immediately resume command under center.
It’s that simple, really.
Darnold’s own production was nothing to write home about following his trade from the New York Jets. But one could make a strong case it’s far better than anything Mayfield’s managed to accomplish behind a much-improved offensive line.
It’ll be interesting to see which way Wilks goes with this. Especially if Walker maintains his high-performance level.