Carolina Panthers’ quarterbacks are entering an interesting period with Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield. The acquisition of Mayfield has only further made the Panthers locker room more competitive, with Darnold and Matt Corrall already in line. Despite the trade, the franchise seems to be in no mood for handing out favors as Mayfield looks to become the starting QB.
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During a recent appearance on the First Things First show, the debate was raging between NFL analysts regarding Mayfield’s credentials as the starting QB. Among the panel was long-time sports analyst Chris Broussard, who played down winning the starting role as an achievement for Mayfield. Broussard believes that while the new QB is looking to play for the team, his past suggests problems lay ahead for him.
He stated, “Here’s the thing guys, intangibles…I mean, who came to even back for Baker anonymously? When OBS or Odell Beckham Sr. went off on him with a viral video. Anyone? Who came out when Baker was embarrassed by the franchise? What teammates came out and supported him after the Deshaun Watson trade or even after his surgery, even?… I think Baker’s better, but I am 100 percent on board with an open competition, and may the best man win.”
Can Baker Mayfield take over the starting job from Sam Darnold in Carolina?
The Panthers organization and Mayfield seem excited about teaming up and moving forward to the upcoming season. GM Scott Fitterer has expressed his interest in keeping an open competition for the right to be the starting QB in 2022. While the franchise has strengthened its depth at center, the roster appears promising for Mayfield and his chances of making the playoffs.
The pressure of his debut season will be well and truly on Mayfield. He will look for a fresh start in Carolina under head coach Matt Rhule. As another NFL season approaches, the statement from Mayfield is promising for the upcoming competition.
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The 2022 NFL campaign will set the background for Mayfield and his attempts to impress his new Carolina fans. While the expectations have never been higher, Mayfield will be itching to start from Week 1. The Panthers will face off against the Cleveland Browns. It will be the perfect moment for the former Browns QB to prove his doubters wrong in 2022.
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