The Carolina Panthers wrapped up their third training camp of the Matt Rhule era with a short practice that featured 3rd and 4th string players exclusively getting reps. After attending all of the training camp practices there are a few things that are absolutely certain about this year’s squad and a few questions that have yet to be answered. Here’s what we know:
Baker Mayfield Will Be QB1
Unlike some, coming into training camp I honestly believed (and still do) that there was an open competition for starting quarterback. But after what I’ve seen over the past two weeks the answer is now clear – Baker Mayfield puts the Carolina Panthers in the best position to win and will be named starter. Don’t get it twisted, the former Heisman Trophy winner isn’t completely washing Darnold in practice, but he is noticeably better. Mayfield has the confidence and ability to stretch the field – resulting in the explosive plays that have eluded the Panthers offense the last few years, as well as, the persona and swag the team has been lacking at QB1 since the departure of Cam Newton. His trash talk fuels the defense and inspires the offense. He’s the breath of fresh air needed after two disappointing seasons and failed quarterback experiments. He has a chip on his shoulder that will continuously push him as the season progresses. He’s simply the better option.
So what does that mean for San Darnold? Darnold has told us numerous times that he controls what he can control and can’t worry about the rest. He hasn’t had a bad camp, he just hasn’t flashed as much as Mayfield. Matt Rhule and Scott Fitterer have already said they are prepared to keep three quarterbacks on the 53-man roster. I believe that will be, Baker, Sam and third round pick Matt Corral. Sam will be a serviceable and expensive backup with 18.8 million reasons why people shouldn’t feel bad for him this year.
Note: Although Matt Corral came into camp prepared to compete for the starting quarterback position – that’s just not going to happen, but the goal for him is still clear. He wants to be QB1 and will soak everything up he needs to this year in order to put himself in a position to compete for that role next year. Not being thrust into the starting role as a rookie will probably benefit Corral. Look at some of the top quarterbacks in the league. Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes did not start their rookie seasons. Corral will be able to get practice reps, soak up all the good and take note of the bad, which will put him in a better position in the future.
Good to Great
When outlining his goals heading into the season, Matt Rhule said he wanted the defense to go from good to great. I think they’re on their way. Brian Burns, who Rhule has told us put on 10 extra pounds this season, has firmly stepped into his role as defensive leader – a place that will help him (*clears throat*) finally hit that double digit sack goal, as well as, elevate the defensive line as a whole. With that being said, the secondary will be one of the strengths of this unit. Coach Steve Wilks’ addition can’t be understated. He brings a level of experience and edge to a group of talented corners in Donte Jackson (the fire starter), Jaycee Horne (the enforcer) and CJ Henderson (the quiet assassin). Add the experience of safety Xavier Woods and the raw athleticism/upside of Jeremy Chinn and you have a totally rebranded Thieves Ave.
After 12 practices, I can’t tell if the defense is ready to take the leap to greatness, but they have the tools needed to do so.
Note: I still think the Panthers should be on the lookout for another edge rusher.
Head of the Ship
Matt Rhule is rejuvenated. After two rough years that had the shadow of Covid-19 over them, Rhule seems poised to prove the haters wrong. He’s slimmer, smiling more and unbothered by the proverbial “hot seat” many say he’s on. Like Darnold, he’s controlling what he can control and that includes beefing up his staff with the aforementioned Wilks, defensive line coach Paul Pasqualoni, offensive line coach James Campen, special teams coordinator Chris Tabor and offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo – who gives Magneto evil genius-type vibes (a good thing, by the way). The goal is to get better – which hasn’t happened thus far – but like players, coaches also get better with experience. Rhule has seemingly learned from the bumps in the road he’s faced, is coming across more relaxed (withstanding the occasionally moment when he interrupts a touchdown celebration to make a point about ball security) and seems to be having more fun – a trait that trickles down to the rest of the team.
With all that being said, we’re still just two weeks in. Everything looks rosy. Next week’s joint practice against New England will paint a clearer picture.
