Baker Mayfield: 'We’ve Overcome Failure, And Now It’s Time to Shine With Our New Teams!'
Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold have faced their fair share of adversity, particularly during their tenures with the Carolina Panthers. Both quarterbacks entered the NFL with high expectations as former first-round picks, but their stints with the Panthers were marked by struggles and unfulfilled potential. However, their resilience in the face of adversity has led them to new teams where they are now ready to prove themselves once again.
Mayfield, who joined the Panthers in 2022, was thrust into a challenging situation. Despite his potential, the Panthers’ season quickly went off track, and Mayfield’s struggles were evident. With a 1-5 record, his time with Carolina ended prematurely, but that didn’t break his spirit. Instead, Mayfield used the setback as motivation to bounce back stronger. He was picked up by the Los Angeles Rams, where he displayed glimpses of his former self. This led to him signing a three-year, $100 million deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2025, offering a fresh start and a new opportunity to lead.
“I’ve been through a lot with the Panthers, but every challenge has been a step in helping me grow stronger,” Mayfield said in an interview. “Both Sam and I learned how to rise from failure. Now, we’re creating something special with our new teams.”
For Darnold, the journey was similarly turbulent. After a promising start with the New York Jets, Darnold’s move to the Panthers in 2021 didn’t yield the expected results. With inconsistent performances and injuries, his time with Carolina ended without the success he had hoped for. However, Darnold’s determination didn’t waver. He signed with the Minnesota Vikings for the 2024 season, and after a solid year, he found a new home with the Seattle Seahawks on a lucrative contract.
Darnold’s journey has been one of perseverance. “The road hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it,” he shared. “I’ve had to learn from my mistakes, and now I’m looking forward to contributing to a team that believes in me.”
Both quarterbacks’ stories are a testament to their character and determination. Despite being written off by many after their struggles in Carolina, Mayfield and Darnold have shown that they are far from done. Their time with the Panthers may have been filled with challenges, but it’s clear that those experiences have shaped them into the players they are today. Now, with new teams and renewed confidence, they are poised to make an impact in the NFL.
As Mayfield and Darnold continue their careers with the Buccaneers and Seahawks, respectively, their stories serve as a reminder that setbacks don’t define a player’s future — it’s how they respond to adversity that matters most.
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