Baker Mayfield. Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Panthers WR D.J. Moore gives curious response to Baker Mayfield question

Carolina Panthers wideout D.J. Moore had an interesting response to media questions regarding Baker Mayfield's release from the team on Monday.

Hearing Moore initially use the word "upset" -- before stepping back on his words slightly -- is curious, given that the release was reportedly a mutual decision.

After four largely underwhelming seasons with Mayfield under center, the Cleveland Browns controversially acquired Deshaun Watson last offseason, leading to a trade request from the Oklahoma product. The Browns eventually moved Mayfield to the Panthers in July, and he beat out Sam Darnold for the team's starting job in training camp.

The 27-year-old struggled for the most part through five-plus games as the starter, recording four touchdowns and four interceptions while fumbling six times (though only losing one of them), before suffering an ankle injury in Week 5. Upon his return to health in Week 8, Mayfield had lost his status as QB1 to P.J. Walker.

He came on in relief of Walker during a Week 9 blowout loss to the Cincinnati Bengals and made one final start with the club in Week 11, going 21-for-33 for 196 passing yards, zero touchdowns, and two interceptions. Mayfield has posted a career-low 57.6% completion percentage for 1,313 passing yards, six touchdowns, and nine interceptions while adding 16 carries for 52 yards and one score in seven games (six starts) this season.

With a host of NFL teams still battling a playoff spot and dealing with inconsistencies and injuries at quarterback, it wouldn't be a surprise to see a contender take a chance on Mayfield.

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