4 Carolina Panthers players on the hot seat in Week 11 at Ravens

Baker Mayfield – Carolina Panthers QB

It looked as if Baker Mayfield was set for another game manning a clipboard on the sidelines before an unfortunate injury to P.J. Walker forced the Carolina Panthers into a change of thinking. This looks like one last shot for the former Oklahoma star to prove he has what it takes to be an NFL-caliber quarterback.

Mayfield hasn’t had things easy since his trade from the Cleveland Browns. He was put in an unnecessary competition against Sam Darnold in training camp, with Matt Rhule’s influence on offense clearly restricting Ben McAdoo from implementing his desired scheme, and the signal-caller suffered as a result.

Granted, Mayfield’s performances could have been better before his spell on injured/reserve. But the Heisman Trophy winner showed signs of life in the second half at the Cincinnati Bengals, which could mean more is on the way during his first official start under interim head coach Steve Wilks.

It’s time for Mayfield to put up or shut up against a familiar foe. One he’s had some success against during some fierce AFC North clashes as the Browns quarterback.

With Sam Darnold waiting in the wings and Walker hoping to get back quickly, the pressure is on Mayfield. If things don’t go well, it’ll be the last time we see him occupy the position under center in Carolina.

Mayfield is a strong-willed character that will be aware of what’s at stake. Whether he can perform well enough to shift the growing narrative surrounding his future aspirations is another matter.