"What a move" - Pat McAfee show weighs in on Baker Mayfield's trade to Panthers

At long last, the Cleveland Browns have found a trade partner for their disgruntled former starting quarterback. The partner is the Carolina Panthers. Baker Mayfield will head to Carolina after four years with the Browns. The Browns traded for Deshaun Watson earlier this offseason, leading Mayfield to request a trade.

The Browns and the Panthers reached an agreement with the quarterback being exchanged for a conditional fifth-round pick in the 2024 draft. Baker Mayfield is also taking a $3.5 million paycut to join the Panthers.

The news featured on the Pat McAfee Show and left McAfee almost stunned:

"What a move by the Carolina Panthers!" he said.

His co-host A.J. Hawk went on to add:

"What a value deal! If Baker's your starting quarterback and he's serviceable and you're only paying him $5 million. It's like you have a guy on his rookie contract but actually cheaper like a late-round rookie contract guy almost."

Why this is a great move for the Carolina Panthers

New Orleans Saints v Carolina Panthers

Carolina were in a tough position in the offseason. They arguably overpaid for Sam Darnold. They gave the New York Jets three draft picks, including a second-rounder, for the quarterback last offseason.

Darnold struggled in Carolina after his promising start was interrupted by injury. He finished the season with 2,527 passing yards, nine touchdowns and 13 interceptions.

Carolina then brought back Cam Newton for a second stint with the franchise, but he was unable to change their fortunes. Newton threw for 684 yards, four touchdowns and five interceptions. Carolina slumped to 5-12 and occupied last place in the NFC South.

With Matt Rhule under pressure this year, the Panthers needed to act. Not only have they dramatically improved their quarterback position, but they've done it by only paying Mayfield $5 million. To top it all off, they only traded a conditional future fifth-round pick.

Baker Mayfield immediately improves their offense and gives the Panthers a chance to compete for the playoffs. They have the playmakers to help Mayfield. Robby Anderson and D.J. Moore form a solid one-two punch at the wide receiver position. Christian McCaffrey is one of the most dynamic footballers in the NFL. All they really needed was someone reliable under center and they now have that.

With a solid young defense, this season suddenly looks a lot brighter for the folks down in Charlotte. It will be fascinating to see how they get on when the season kicks off in a few months time.

If you use any of the above quotes, please credit The Pat McAfee Show and H/T Sportskeeda.