Browns owner Jimmy Haslam addresses Baker Mayfield, reported 'adult' comment

As drama unfolded between Baker Mayfield and the Cleveland Browns earlier this month, ownership reportedly made the comment about having “an adult” at quarterback. Friday, Cleveland owner Jimmy Haslam responded to that quote — and flatly denied it.

ESPN’s Chris Mortensen reported the shot at Mayfield on NFL Live earlier this month and confirmed he and the Browns were “breaking up” no matter what happened with a potential Deshaun Watson move. Of course, the Browns ended up trading for the Houston Texans quarterback, and Mayfield requested a trade.

After Cleveland introduced Watson on Friday, Haslam responded to Mortensen’s report about the “adult” comment and said it didn’t come from ownership.

“We think highly of Baker and did not get down on him,” Haslam said. “I know there’s a statement that we needed an adult in the room and Baker felt that came from ownership. That’s not true. Nobody can question the 4 years he gave. … We wish him nothing but the best of luck.”

Browns reportedly take big shot at Baker Mayfield

Baker Mayfield could be out of Cleveland as soon as next season. Several reports earlier this month indicated that the franchise is ready to move on from its star quarterback just four years after it selected him first overall in 2018.

ESPN insider Chris Mortensen made a TV appearance March 16 in which he revealed Cleveland took a major shot at Baker Mayfield and his leadership approach. He also said he doesn’t see the relationship lasting much longer.

“They’re breaking up regardless of whether or not Deshaun Watson ends up in Cleveland,” Mortensen said. “The one thing I was told is it’s just not a match emotionally. Baker Mayfield’s passion and emotional leadership was embraced at Oklahoma and even in the beginning with the Browns, but things have changed. They want what they consider ‘an adult’ at that position. Baker Mayfield is probably going to be moved. I think Seattle may end up being a candidate. Other people may say the Colts.

“Who’s an adult? Jimmy Garoppolo is one I would not ignore for Cleveland. But I do agree this is a breakup about to happen.”

Mortensen’s report comes after several others said the Browns were in search of Mayfield’s replacement. Watson, who found out he will not face criminal charges in several sexual assault cases against him, became the target. Mayfield took to Twitter to address the rumors, though he offered no clue as to whether he will remain in Cleveland in 2022.