For now, the Cleveland Browns will be quarterback Baker Mayfield‘s team.
The Browns actively tried to trade the former Oklahoma standout, to no avail.
The Seattle Seahawks showed interest but decided to bring in Geno Smith instead.
Likewise, the Carolina Panthers chose not to proceed and selected Ole Miss’ Matt Corral in round three of the 2022 NFL Draft.
Mayfield’s downfall came quickly after the drama initiated by Odell Beckham Sr.
The wide receiver’s father painted a picture of Mayfield not seeing his son downfield.
That video, together with the surgery on the torn labrum of his non-throwing shoulder, may have hurt his trade value.
But for ESPN’s Jordan Raanan, Mayfield is getting a bad rap.
Man, the Baker Mayfield slander needs to stop! He went to organization that was all-time bad, set TD record for rookie, helped turn them around, made playoffs, won playoff game (was lights out to beat rival Steelers) and was hurt last year. Has limitations but deserves respect. https://t.co/rLHxMyA4sX
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) May 3, 2022
Ranaan tweeted, “Man, the Baker Mayfield slander needs to stop! He went to organization that was all-time bad, set TD record for rookie, helped turn them around, made playoffs, won playoff game (was lights out to beat rival Steelers) and was hurt last year. Has limitations but deserves respect.”
He said this in response to a tweet by ESPN Radio’s Keyshawn, JWill & Max which said, “You’re not allowed to use the word bust. How would you describe Baker Mayfield’s career in 1 word?”
Ranaan’s argument is fair because if Mayfield is a bust, then what would you call JaMarcus Russell and Ryan Leaf?
Mayfield’s Achievements With Cleveland
It’s unfortunate that the Browns are quick to trade him after acquiring Deshaun Watson on a five-year, $230 million fully-guaranteed deal.
But Mayfield helped the Browns reach the playoffs and threw for 27 touchdowns in his rookie season.
He was a pivotal reason for brining success to a long-suffering franchise.
Teams looking for a play-caller must give him a chance after his shoulder injury gets healed.
NEXT: Odell Beckham Jr. Hints At More Browns Drama To Be Revealed