Baker Mayfield was a familiar Panthers player since Deshaun Watson was traded by the Browns. Now, a deal that will send the quarterback to Carolina has been reached.
NFL Media reports that Mayfield will be traded to the Panthers for a conditional fifth-rounder in 2024. Based on Mayfield's playing time, the pick could be converted to a fourth rounder. The trade will not become official until Mayfield has taken a physical in Carolina.
The deal was not without its challenges. Mayfield was expected to earn $18.8million this season. Questions about the Browns' pay had been a problem in earlier discussions. Mayfield will be paid $10.5 million by Cleveland, while the Panthers will pay him $5 million. Mayfield agreed to a pay cut in order to facilitate the deal.
Carolina's probable starter will be Mayfield, which means that he'll likely face the Browns in Week 1 We don't know if Watson will be available, but it is certain that Mayfield will not be able to replace him.
