The Carolina Panthers’ experiment with quarterback Baker Mayfield has come to an end. The team announced the release of the veteran quarterback on December 5th, 2022, marking a disappointing conclusion to a season filled with high hopes and ultimately, unfulfilled potential.
The writing was on the wall when interim head coach Steve Wilks named PJ Walker the starting quarterback, relegating Mayfield to third string behind Walker and Sam Darnold. This move signaled a shift in the team’s direction and made Mayfield’s departure all but certain.
Mayfield’s journey to Carolina began with much fanfare. The former number one overall draft pick arrived via trade with the Cleveland Browns in July of 2022. The Panthers, desperate for a franchise quarterback, sent a conditional 2024 fifth-round pick to Cleveland in exchange for the opportunity to revitalize Mayfield’s career.
The Panthers envisioned Mayfield as the missing piece, a quarterback with proven talent and a fiery demeanor who could lead them back to playoff contention. Mayfield, eager to prove his doubters wrong after a tumultuous final season in Cleveland, embraced the fresh start in Carolina.
The early returns, however, were underwhelming. While Mayfield earned the starting job out of training camp, his on-field performance failed to meet expectations. He led the Panthers to a 1-4 record in his five starts, struggling to establish consistency and chemistry within a new offensive system.
His best performance ironically came in Week 1 against his former team, the Cleveland Browns. Despite throwing for a season-high 235 yards and a touchdown, Mayfield couldn’t lead the Panthers to victory, falling short in a 26-24 loss.
A high ankle sprain suffered in Week 5 against the San Francisco 49ers sidelined Mayfield and paved the way for PJ Walker to take the reins of the offense. Walker’s impressive performances in relief duty made it difficult for Mayfield to reclaim his starting role upon his return from injury.
Mayfield did receive another opportunity in Week 11 against the Baltimore Ravens, but he struggled mightily, throwing two crucial interceptions in a 13-3 defeat. This disappointing outing effectively sealed his fate in Carolina.
In seven games with the Panthers, Mayfield completed 57.8% of his passes for 1,313 yards, six touchdowns, and six interceptions, culminating in a disappointing 74.4 passer rating.
The decision to release Mayfield ultimately came down to a combination of factors, including his inconsistent play, the emergence of PJ Walker, and the team’s desire to evaluate other quarterback options heading into the 2023 season.
While Mayfield’s time in Carolina did not go as planned, it’s important to remember that he is still a young and talented quarterback with the potential to revive his career elsewhere. It will be interesting to see where he lands next and whether he can recapture the magic that made him a Heisman Trophy winner and the top pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.
For the Panthers, the search for a franchise quarterback continues. The team is hoping to find a long-term solution at the game’s most important position as they look to build a competitive roster for the future.
