USA Today via Reuters
Sep 11, 2022; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) prepares to hand off to running back Christian McCaffrey (22) during the second half against the Cleveland Browns at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Sep 11, 2022; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) prepares to hand off to running back Christian McCaffrey (22) during the second half against the Cleveland Browns at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
The Panthers gear up for their trip to the SoFi stadium. As their game against the LA Rams comes closer, their injury list seems to be growing. And according to the latest reports, Baker Mayfield might not be available for the Sunday match-up.
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While the Carolina Panthers look to transition from one coach to another, their path seems rockier now with both their preferred quarterbacks out with injuries. While Sam Darnold is still placed on the injury reserve. It now appears that Baker Mayfield might also not see any action on Sunday.
#Panthers QB Baker Mayfield received second opinions on his high ankle sprain that confirmed there’s no major damage and no surgery needed, per sources. He’s not going on IR as of now, leaving open the possibility he could be back within four games.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 11, 2022
As per the latest reports, the Carolina Panthers have listed Baker as questionable for the next game. The quarterback was struggling with an ankle sprain, which he picked up against the San Francisco 49ers. On the brighter side of things, he was out of the protective boots for their last practice session. However, the player did not participate in any team sessions.
USA Today via Reuters
Sep 18, 2022; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants linebacker Oshane Ximines (53) sacks Carolina Panthers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) in the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
Interim head coach Steve Wilks also did everything but in the end, confirmed the quarterback’s absence. While he told the press that Baker had a great workout and looked good. He also admitted to still going with PJ Walker as the starter, as things stand.
How will the Panthers fare without Baker Mayfield?
The team traded for the quarterback this offseason. Eventually giving up only a 5th-round draft pick in 2018.
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While the Panthers now have 2 of the first 3 picks from the 2018 draft, Mayfield (1st) and Darnold (3rd), they still lack a genuine leader in the offense. In 5 starts, Baker Mayfield only registered 4 touchdowns with 1 rushing TD, and a further 4 interceptions to go with it.
Recently, the team also parted ways with Matt Rhule after 3 seasons. Now the responsibility of getting the Cardiac Cats back on track is on the shoulders of interim coach Steve Wilks.
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As the Panthers begin a new era under a different coach. Wilks faces a steep climb. Defending champions Los Angeles Rams will be ready to take the wild cats for the jugular.
Watch this story: New Panthers’ QB Baker Mayfield can earn his $35 million pay-cut back, but it has the price of performance attached to it.
