The Carolina Panthers are expected to name Baker Mayfield their starting quarterback against the Cleveland Browns for Week 1 of the 2022 season, sources told The Athletic. He’s been competing with Sam Darnold but should be declared the starter when the team is ready to make the announcement.
Panthers coach Matt Rhule had indicated he could decide between Mayfield and Darnold by their preseason game against the New England Patriots. Mayfield played one series during the Panthers’ preseason game against the Washington Commanders. It was a 13-play drive that stalled after Mayfield fumbled an exchange with center Pat Elflein.
“I haven’t been worried about when the decision’s gonna be made or any of that timeline-wise,” Mayfield said. “Just try to put my head down and handle it one day at a time.”
The Panthers acquired Mayfield from the Browns during the offseason. Mayfield played 14 games during the 2021 season, recording 3,010 yards, 17 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.
The Panthers face the Patriots on Friday at 7 pm ET for their penultimate preseason game. Carolina’s Week 1 matchup against the Browns is Sept. 11 am to 1 pm ET.
(Photo: Geoff Burke / USA Today)
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