The Cleveland Browns have some major roster decisions to make soon.
The most notable is whether or not to offer Baker Mayfield an extension potentially worth $40 million or more per year.
Cornerback Denzel Ward is on the same timetable as Mayfield, as both were early first-round picks in 2018.
These looming extensions would come in addition to the lucrative deal Myles Garrett signed as a former top pick himself.
So when fans heard new deals were being signed, it was easy to think one would be for Mayfield or Ward.
But that is not the case as first it was offensive guard Wyatt Teller getting a well-deserved extension.
Browns, G Wyatt Teller reach agreement on a four-year contract extension worth $56.8 million. (via @MikeGarafolo + @TomPelissero) pic.twitter.com/eI8hhFsSgK
— NFL (@NFL) November 9, 2021
Teller came to Cleveland and has been elite, making him arguably the most important player to retain heading into 2022.
That deal was signed Tuesday.
The team followed it up Wednesday with yet another offensive line extension.
Sources: The #Browns have agreed to terms with guard Joel Bitonio on a contract extension, locking up their second big-time guard in two days. First Wyatt Teller, now Bitonio.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 10, 2021
The interior of the line is now solidified as the Browns make their more high-profile decisions.
How This Affects The QB Decision
The usual way the quarterback market goes is that the deals just keep getting bigger and bigger.
But Mayfield has not exactly done enough yet to warrant a deal like the one Josh Allen signed.
To be fair, neither has Allen.
So it is possible the Browns offer Mayfield something less than Allen and let him know that is the best deal he is going to get.
Or, potentially, the salary cap will go up and the front office will get creative to pay everyone without having to worry.
That would be tricky, but it is possible with creative roster construction.
What is clear is that the Browns have established a clear window to chase a Super Bowl.
Assuming Mayfield continues to progress, he will get his money without much hassle.
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