Without a long-term—or even clear—answer under center, the Carolina Panthers are all about that competition, baby! So, as general manager Scott Fitterer has told us for a while now, don’t be surprised if they continue to add more of it to their quarterback room.
That added competition could still come in the form of Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield. According to Josina Anderson of CBS Sports, the Panthers haven’t exactly eliminated the prospect of a trade for the former No. 1 overall pick.
My understanding is the door isn't 100% shut on the #Panthers and talks regarding Baker Mayfield, but I certainly received the impression that Carolina isn't in any rush, nor are they pressed, per league source. They will roll as is, if need be, per league source. @BovadaOfficial
— IG: JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) May 9, 2022
What’s pretty sweet about this dance for Fitterer and Carolina is that they hold much of the leverage. Having drafted Ole Miss standout Matt Corral in the third round of the 2022 NFL draft and with Sam Darnold still around, the Panthers aren’t exactly desperate to deal for a largely mediocre quarterback.
Such a deal might’ve come close before Corral’s selection last Friday—as ESPN’s Kimberley A. Martin reported that the team’s pursuit of Mayfield was “heating up.” That, however, came to a halt when the Panthers’ patience paid off later on that night.
And, luckily for them, they can continue to play the waiting game on Mayfield until the Browns either eat a substantial portion of his contract or just eventually release him.
