Ever since the Browns obtained Deshaun Watson in a trade with the Texans, it seemed like Baker Mayfield was destined for Carolina. The Panthers, with only one choice in the first three rounds, passed on taking a quarterback Thursday.
With the sixth overall selection, the Panthers chose offensive tackle Ickey Ekwonu.
Kimberley Martin of ESPN reports the Panthers’ pursuit of Mayfield “continues to heat up,” adding that Mayfield could end up in Carolina by the end of the weekend.
The Panthers likely will want the Browns to pick up most of Mayfield’s $18.8 million salary for 2022. He is scheduled to become a free agent in 2023.
Trading Mayfield to the Panthers would get Mayfield out of the AFC.
Mayfield played through a torn labrum in his left, non-throwing shoulder, starting 12 games with the injury last season. He led the Browns to a playoff win in 2020.
The Panthers currently have Sam Darnold and P.J. Walker on their depth chart at the position.