Quarterback Baker Mayfield and the Cleveland Browns are in an obviously awkward place in their relationship, and it may ultimately lead to a divorce.
While no trade is developing for the former top overall pick at this time, a few potential destinations are expected to be on his radar. The Browns have met with Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson to try to convince him to waive his no-trade clause and join the AFC North franchise.
Seahawks, Colts would be options for Baker Mayfield
The Seattle Seahawks and the Indianapolis Colts are two teams that Mayfield is expected to welcome joining if trade discussions heat up, according to league sources. No trade involving Mayfield or Watson is imminent or developing at this time, according to sources.
The Browns are not satisfied with moving forward with Mayfield as their starting quarterback, which has prompted them to explore trade scenarios for Watson, a three-time Pro Bowler. Additionally, they have fielded exploratory trade calls from other NFL teams about Mayfield, according to league sources not authorized to speak.
Cleveland Browns ‘open to the idea’ of trading Mayfield
While it’s far from a lock that the Browns will ultimately move on from Mayfield, a former top overall pick and Heisman Trophy winner from Oklahoma, they are open to the idea of potentially upgrading at the quarterback position, per sources.
What’s next for Mayfield?
As for Mayfield, he’s due an $18.858 million fully guaranteed salary in 2022. He played hurt last season, displaying grit as he battled shoulder injuries. There are viable scenarios where Mayfield could turn things around and get the long-term commitment he’s sought from the Browns.
Mayfield tore his labrum in his left, non-throwing shoulder in 2021. Cleveland finished 8-9 as he passed for 3,010 yards, 17 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions for an 83.1 passer rating. Furthermore, he was sacked a career-high 43 times.
“Baker’s a confident player,” Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said during the combine. “He’s done it. We’ve all seen him do it, so I don’t think he lacks for confidence. I think this is a great offseason for him to get healthy and then have an offseason together, get him in the building with the rest of the team and work together and try and get better. That’s kind of our focus.”