WATCH: Cleveland Browns reportedly take big shot at Baker Mayfield amid Deshaun Watson speculation
Regardless of whether the Browns land Deshaun Watson, Baker Mayfield could be out of Cleveland as soon as next season. Several reports this past week have 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 Wednesday 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 surfaced this past week claiming the Browns are in search of Mayfield’s replacement. Watson, who found out Friday he will not face criminal charges in several sexual assault cases against him, is the prime candidate at the moment. Mayfield took to Twitter on Tuesday evening to address the rumors, though he offered no clue as to whether he will remain in Cleveland in 2022.
“I have given this franchise everything I have. That is something I’ve always done at every stage, and at every level. And that will not change wherever I take my next snap,” Mayfield said. “Whatever happens… I just want to say thank you to the fans who truly embraced who I am and the mentality that aligned so well with this city’s hard-working people. Cleveland will always be apart of Emily and my story. And we will always be thankful for the impact it has had and will have in our lives. Sincerely, Baker Reagan Mayfield.”
Mayfield entered this season with high hopes after leading the Browns to their first playoff appearance since 2002 last year. However, the quarterback suffered injuries throughout the season that limited his playing time to 14 games, some of which he played hurt. He still managed to throw for 3,010 yards, 17 touchdowns and 13 interceptions in 2021.
If his time in Cleveland is indeed done, expect him to have no trouble finding a new home next year.