The Indianapolis Colts are in the market for a quarterback after trading Carson Wentz to the Washington Commanders.
That transaction guaranteed that they will have a different starter in Week 1 of the 2022 season.
It’s a frustrating trend that dates back to 2016 when Andrew Luck was still playing for the team.
Since then, they’ve had Wentz, Jacoby Brissett, Scott Tolzien, and Philip Rivers taking over.
As their search for a new play-caller continues, they could have signed marquee quarterbacks given their $54 million cap space as of writing.
But with the market moving fast, ESPN’s NFL insider Dan Orlovsky pointed out that the Colts only have one option left at the position.
Baker Mayfield is done in Cleveland-he has been since day after season. Yesterday just confirms it.
If I were him, I would do everything in my power to get to @Colts
If I were Indy, I’d make the call to see the cost, cause as of today that’s their best option.
— Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7) March 16, 2022
Orlovsky tweeted, “Baker Mayfield is done in Cleveland – he has been since the day after season. Yesterday just confirms it. If I were him, I would do everything in my power to get to @Colts. If I were Indy, I’d make the call to see the cost, cause as of today that’s their best option.”
The former NFL quarterback might be alluding to Mayfield’s heartfelt message as confirmation that his days as a Brown are numbered.
If that’s the case, it’s possible that the Browns will make a strong push for Deshaun Watson.
Likewise, the quarterback market dwindled quickly when Aaron Rodgers re-signed with the Green Bay Packers and Russell Wilson got traded to the Denver Broncos.
Mitchell Trubisky also joined the Pittsburgh Steelers.
How Much Will Mayfield Be Worth?
If Indianapolis goes through this route, they won’t have problems absorbing Mayfield’s $18.8 million base salary in 2022 which is the entire amount of Cleveland’s fifth-year option.
If the Colts and the Browns engage in negotiations, the latter won’t demand much from Indianapolis given their desire to let go of him.
Therefore, a second-day draft pick would be the most that the Colts must surrender to get Mayfield.
NEXT: 3 Best Starting QB Options For The Colts In 2022