Coming into the 2021 season, Baker Mayfield was undoubtedly the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns. That proved not to be the case by the end of the season.
As tensions mounted between the Houston Texans and embattled quarterback Deshaun Watson, the rumor mill began to turn regarding former number one pick Baker Mayfield’s future in a Browns uniform. Those rumors, though yet to come to fruition, have picked up steam since Cleveland’s acquisition of Deshaun Watson.
Once regarded as the franchise player Cleveland desperately needed, Baker Mayfield has found himself tossed to the side like last year’s toy on Christmas morning.
In an offseason ripe with new acquisitions, I’m surprised nobody has really bitten on Mayfield yet. Seattle and Carolina have been rumored to be interested, and he could absolutely benefit from a change of scenery.
What is in Baker Mayfield’s future?
At the time of writing, the Browns QB room is occupied by Deshaun Watson, Baker Mayfield, and Jacoby Brissett. The Browns’ front office is currently awaiting a decision on Watson’s eligibility status due to off-field behavior. Jacoby Brissett is the assumed QB in the event Watson is suspended long-term, despite Baker Mayfield still being on the roster.
When asked about the possibility of reconciliation, Mayfield had this to say:
“No. I think for that to happen there would have to be some reaching out. But we’re ready to move on, I think, on both sides.”
It is pretty clear at this point that he wants a change of scenery, regardless of Watson’s playing status come the 2022 season. A holdout is not out of the question if Baker Mayfield is not traded before the preseason.
Baker Mayfield has played as well as anyone could ask. Especially while dealing with a coaching staff and front office that turn over at the speed of light.
Mayfield is the longest-tenured Browns QB in two decades, and Cleveland is willing to throw him aside for someone who may very well not even play this year. Whatever the result of Deshaun Watson’s disciplinary hearing, Browns fans may want to add another name to that QB jersey.