Baker Mayfield faces the Browns in Week 1. BRYAN TERRY/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK

Panthers QB Baker Mayfield has 'no animosity' toward Browns, excited for 'special' Week 1 clash

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 7/12/22

Less than one week after being traded to the Carolina Panthers, quarterback Baker Mayfield talked virtually with members of the media on Tuesday afternoon.

He discussed his exit from the Cleveland Browns — the team that drafted him first overall in 2018 — and the now highly anticipated matchup between Carolina and Cleveland during Week 1 of the regular season.

On week 1: “it’s gonna be a special one, a home game playing against a former team…my job is to put our team in the best position to win.” #panthers #browns #nfl
— Nick Carboni (@NickCarboniWCNC) July 12, 2022

Mayfield's ability to even have an impact on the Week 1 tilt is far from guaranteed, as the Panthers have indicated that the summer will include an open competition for the starting quarterback position. While the team could have third-year pro P.J. Walker and rookie Matt Corral in the mix, the starting role is expected to go to either Mayfield or fellow 2018 first-round pick Sam Darnold.

"I feel like the team is close to being really,really good." Mayfield says he'll fill whatever role that means for him whether backup or starter.
— Bridget Condon (@BridgetCondon_) July 12, 2022