The Separation
There may be a little separation developing between Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold. I wrote yesterday that Mayfield won the first day of “real ball,” and while his practice wasn’t perfect, the former number one overall draft pick made enough plays to start distinguishing himself from Darnold. His best play Tuesday was a nearly 50 yard touchdown pass to Robbie Anderson in 11 vs 11. Mayfield also threw a dart to Ian Thomas for the score in 7 vs 7. Baker’s day wasn’t perfect. Near the end of practice during a 2-minute drill he was picked off by Frankie Luvu.
Darnold had a steady practice – completing 16 of 25 passes, including two touchdowns. Sam did connect with Terrace Marshall on a deep ball, but has failed to complete as many explosive plays as Mayfield. Like Baker, Darnold threw one interception on a pass that was picked off by Kenny Robinson after being batted in the air by Stanley Thomas-Oliver.
The Sleeper
Cornerback CJ Henderson has quietly been having a very good camp. The former 1st round pick has had somewhat of a rebirth in Carolina. His resurgence, along with Donte Jackson and a healthy Jaycee Horn, could give the Panthers one of the best cornerback groups they’ve had in a long time.
The Protection
Brady Christensen is still taking first team reps at the left tackle position with Ikem Ekwonu working primarily with the second team. Moton is a staple on the right side, but everything else is fluid. It’s just the second day in pads, so I expect guys will start separating themselves in the coming week. With that being said, with the depth and talent the Panthers have along the line, they have the potential to be one of the best groups since Travelle Wharton and Jordan Gross held things down.
The Leap
Carolina’s defense is looking to build on last season and go from good to great. That starts with turnovers. They had two today. Pass rush opposite Brian Burns is still a concern, especially with the loss of Haason Reddick. The team is hoping Marquis Haynes Sr and/or Yetur Gross-Matos will take a leap this season, but we haven’t seen it so far in camp. It’s still early, but it is something the team is keeping their eyes on.