Quarterback Baker Mayfield transformed his faltering NFL career with a remarkable comeback performance for the LA Rams just days after joining the team in late 2024. After being released by the Carolina Panthers in December 2022 following a difficult season, Mayfield was quickly signed by the Rams, where he immediately made an impact despite limited preparation.
Mayfield had endured a period of struggle, particularly with the Panthers, making his unlikely resurgence with the Rams all the more significant. This comeback performance with the LA Rams placed Mayfield back in the spotlight and offered a potential revival for the once top draft pick.
Struggles with the Panthers and a sudden new opportunity
During the 2022 season, Mayfield started six of seven games with the Panthers, but his results were disappointing. He passed for 1,313 yards, threw six touchdowns alongside six interceptions, and posted a troubling quarterback rating of just 18.2, the lowest among qualifying NFL quarterbacks according to ESPN statistics. His performance had cast doubt over his future in the league.
However, the Rams, already out of playoff contention and hampered by injuries, urgently needed quarterback support after Matthew Stafford’s season-ending injury. With backup QB John Walford sidelined, the Rams took a chance by signing Mayfield and activating him quickly for game action.
Rapid adaptation leads to dramatic victory over Raiders
The transition from signing to playing was exceptionally fast. Mayfield was released by the Panthers on a Tuesday, traveled to Los Angeles that same day, practiced at SoFi Stadium on Wednesday, and started against the Las Vegas Raiders on Thursday. Despite no meaningful preparation with his new team, Mayfield completed 22 of 35 passes, throwing for 230 yards with no interceptions and a touchdown.
The defining moment came during a late 98-yard drive, which ended with a 23-yard touchdown to secure a 17-16 win for the Rams. This unexpected clutch performance not only gave the Rams a crucial victory but also revitalized Mayfield’s career in front of fans at the SoFi Stadium.
“We ride down to SO-FI together from Thousand Oaks and the whole way I’m like, ‘Sh*t, let’s just do it.’ Let it fly like, what do we have to lose here.”
—Baker Mayfield, Quarterback, LA Rams
Recognition and implications for Mayfield’s future
In recognition of his efforts, Mayfield was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week, highlighting the significance of his performance as a late-season boost. This win marked a potential turning point for Mayfield, offering hope that he could regain his footing in the NFL despite earlier setbacks.
For the Rams, Mayfield’s success provided a silver lining in an otherwise disappointing season, demonstrating the impact of resilient perseverance and quick adaptation under pressure. Moving forward, this performance could influence future decisions about Mayfield’s role and the Rams’ quarterback strategy.