With a weak draft class and a shallow free-agency haul at quarterback, Baker Mayfield is the best and most realistic option the Carolina Panthers could get.
Teams with franchise quarterbacks are happy to maintain the status quo.
Meanwhile, Mayfield’s relatively younger age and mobility give him the edge over Jimmy Garoppolo who is still in the trade market.
The Cleveland Browns have been trying to move Mayfield to another team ever since they signed Deshaun Watson.
That’s why a conditional fifth-rounder in the 2024 NFL Draft is the best they can do.
It will take time before the verdict of whether the Browns made a good trade is handed down.
Likewise, the Browns might have chosen Carolina because it would take time before they become a relevant squad.
Their futility over the last four seasons makes sports media personality Skip Bayless view this trade in favor of Cleveland.
Shrewd move by the Browns, trading Baker to the worst situation possible, one even more dysfunctional than Cleveland's, sabotaging his ability to come back to haunt them. Carolina is the NFL's biggest mess. Baker will need to move again before he rises & shines. AND HE WILL.
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) July 6, 2022
Bayless tweeted, “Shrewd move by the Browns, trading Baker to the worst situation possible, one even more dysfunctional than Cleveland’s, sabotaging his ability to come back to haunt them. Carolina is the NFL’s biggest mess. Baker will need to move again before he rises & shines. AND HE WILL.”
He does have a point because at least the Browns finished 8-9 last season.
On the other hand, the Panthers ended their campaign at 5-12 despite winning their first three games.
No End In Sight For Panthers’ Futility
Mayfield may help improve the team at quarterback but the talent level in the other positions is questionable.
They are better off if Christian McCaffrey will be able to play an entire season.
Unfortunately, it is uncertain if he will ever play one full season again.
Carolina also lost a key defensive player in Haason Reddick, who had 11 sacks in 2021.
Therefore, the Panthers could remain in the NFC cellar even if Mayfield will take over.
NEXT: Baker Mayfield Can Still Earn His Full Salary In 2022