Tue, Jul 12, 2022 at 1:45pm

BAKER MAYFIELD MOVES TO CAROLINA!

The Carolina Panthers acquired quarterback Baker Mayfield from the Cleveland Browns for a conditional fifth-round draft pick in 2024.

What does it give the Carolina Panthers
The Mayfield/Browns saga is finally over! The No. 1 overall draft pick in 2018 will get a fresh start in Carolina and is likely to supplant fellow '18 first-rounder Sam Darnold as the Panthers' starting quarterback in 2022. Carolina did not give up much to get Mayfield, and were even able to get Cleveland to pick up $10.5 million of Mayfield's contract. Mayfield himself will accept a $3.5 million pay cut to complete the transaction.

What does it give the Cleveland Browns
The Browns needed to move on from Mayfield, regardless of the outcome of the Deshaun Watson case. There were too many bridges burned from both camps, so a divorce was deemed best for all parties concerned. Watson is likely to be suspended for some, most or perhaps even all of the 2022 campaign, but Cleveland seems perfectly happy to go with veteran Jacoby Brissett as the starter until Watson is eligible to return.

Fantasy impact
Mayfield's arrival destroys whatever was left of Darnold's fantasy value. Meanwhile, Brissett's value is fairly solid at present time until the Watson case is decided. As for Mayfield himself, he should be drafted in all league formats but may not be more than a bye week option in most leagues.

Player focus

Carolina Panthers

Baker Mayfield QB

Cleveland Browns

conditional draft pick - Round 5 in 2024