WATCH: Baker Mayfield discusses returning to the Browns if Deshaun Watson is suspended
Baker Mayfield is ready to move on from the Cleveland Browns. The former Oklahoma quarterback was back in Norman this week for his youth camp and opened up to reporters on his relationship with the NFL franchise that he requested a trade from.
With it recently reported that the league it is seeking an indefinite suspension of Deshaun Watson, the Browns quarterback situation is beginning to look uncertain. Asked whether he would consider returning to Cleveland next season if Watson is suspended, Mayfield gave a firm answer.
“I think it’s been pretty obvious the mutual decision on both sides is to move on,” he said. “I’m thankful for my four years in Cleveland. There’s a lot of ups and downs and a ton of learning experiences that I’ll forever keep with me. Teammates and friends and relationships that I’ll have for a lifetime. Just flew in last night from East Lansing, Michigan for Drew Stanton who is my mentor. He was a quarterback there in Cleveland when I got drafted. Just relationships like that, you’re so thankful for. The support staff in Cleveland, the people in Cleveland. It’s a great sports town. So I’m thankful for it. There’s no resentment toward the city of Cleveland by any means.”
The Browns drafted Baker Mayfield with the first overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, and he has been their starter ever since. He even led Cleveland to an 11-5 finish and its first playoff appearance in 17 seasons during his third year in 2020. However, injuries plagued him in 2021 as he threw for the lowest amount of touchdowns in his career (17).
This offseason, tensions began to rise between Mayfield and the Browns. After reports surfaced that the team was in search of a replacement and someone they considered “an adult” at quarterback it appeared all but over. Cleveland later traded for Watson despite numerous sexual harassments allegations against the former Houston star, causing Mayfield to say he felt “disrespected.”
Since Mayfield’s request to be traded, several teams have been tossed around as potential landing spots. Most recently, ESPN reported the Seattle Seahawks may be interested after trading Russell Wilson this offseason. The Carolina Panthers have also been mentioned as another destination for Mayfield.
Although there is still plenty of uncertainty on where Mayfield will play next season, we now know one thing for certain. It definitely won’t be in Cleveland.