Panthers’ trade talks with Browns’ Baker Mayfield break down

With the Panthers having opted for QB pick in the draft, it would seem Mayfield’s hunt for a team will continue

Baker Mayfield’s trade to panthers breaks down

When it was reported that the Cleveland Browns’ disgruntled QB Baker Mayfield was a potential trade target for the Carolina Panthers, it seemed like a situation that made perfect sense. The Panthers were in need of a quarterback and the Mayfield was in need of a team. That, however, now seems to be nothing more than a memory as the Panthers basically made a U-turn by picking Ole Miss’ QB Matt Corral with the No. 94 selection in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Indeed Carolina made some shrewd moves to land Corral by trading up with the Patriots to acquire a player who is largely regarded as a first rounder.

How exactly did it work? The Panthers offered up their fourth-round pick (No. 137) along with a 2023 third-rounder, to New England in order to get their man. This of course despite reports suggesting that further talks had occurred between the franchise and the Browns as recently as Friday about a deal for Mayfield, who will undoubtedly be traded or released after Cleveland brought in Deshaun Watson in a controversial, but blockbuster deal. Could the Panthers still move for Mayfield? It’s possible as the veteran would offer valuable competition in the QB department, but according to reports the talks “have stalled.

Why did the Panthers pick Matt Corral?

According to ESPN’s Ian Rapoport, Carolina believed Corral had “the best film, hands down” of any QB in the class, but there were actually concerns about his off the field behavior. Corral has by his own admission had problems with alcohol abuse and depression in the past, such that several NFL teams apparently raised their fears regarding his leadership during pre-draft meetings. That being said, his quick release and starting-caliber athleticism remain attractive attributes as he makes his entrance into the league.

For the moment the Panthers will still be going with former first-rounder Sam Darnold - acquired via trade with the Jets prior to 2021 - as they roll through the off-season. Indeed, new offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo recently stated that Darnold is the intended Week 1 starter, before later walking back on his words. Expect Corral to challenge for the spot and more over expect the Panthers to encourage the idea as they attempt to address a position that has been problematic for years now.

What next for Baker Mayfield?

With the Panthers deal looking increasingly unlikely to materialize, Mayfield, now finds himself with a handful of options. First up would be the Seattle Seahawks. Having recently lost Russell Wilson trade they’re still without a solid long term option at QB. Then there are the Detroit Lions who have also seemingly opted to not revamp the position, meaning veteran Jared Goff will continue for the time being. Lastly there are the Texans, who despite having apparently chosen to go with Davis Mills would in a sense be a homecoming for Mayfield as a Houston native.