The latest talk of the town is Baker Mayfield‘s trade to the Carolina Panthers.
In some ways, it’s no surprise that they were one of Mayfield’s potential destinations because of their thin depth chart at the position.
They thought that giving Sam Darnold a fresh start would help unlock his potential.
However, his first season was a disappointment as the team finished with a 5-12 record after a 3-0 start.
But to highlight how much they need reinforcements at quarterback, Darnold remained as their best option before the Mayfield trade and even after they drafted Matt Corral.
In his most recent appearance at the Bussin’ With the Boys Podcast, Darnold shared that he thinks of himself as a good quarterback and he has proven that throughout his NFL career so far.
The Panthers might not agree and that’s why they traded for Mayfield.
Still, the two quarterbacks will have a fair opportunity to compete for the starting role.
Sam Darnold had a good spring for the #Panthers and they're by no means handing the job to Baker Mayfield. There will be a training camp competition between the 2018 Nos. 1 and 3 overall picks.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) July 6, 2022
NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo tweeted, “Sam Darnold had a good spring for the #Panthers and they’re by no means handing the job to Baker Mayfield. There will be a training camp competition between the 2018 Nos. 1 and 3 overall picks.”
It’s rare to see two quarterbacks drafted that early ending up being teammates after four seasons.
Typically, play-callers that are selected that high end up being franchise quarterbacks who could play their entire career for one team.
Therefore, the Mayfield versus Darnold competition will be the biggest story for the Panthers during training camp.
Who Will Be The Starter?
Barring any monumental changes, Mayfield has the edge over Darnold because the Panthers have already seen what the latter can do.
Likewise, the former Heisman Trophy winner has led the Cleveland Browns to the playoffs.
Still, Darnold can turn up to be the quarterback Carolina wanted if he has a strong training camp.
When that happens, choosing their starter will be difficult.
NEXT: The Panthers Cannot Depend On Sam Darnold In 2022