I feel dirty re-starting this thread...but here it is.

At the end of the last Baker thread, oob said this:

"If they have proven anything to us, is that they want the best possible person under center for the Browns and will do just about anything to accomplish that."

I believe that ^ as well...and have confidence that the FO has a plan to do just that...and at any position. Here's what gives me great pause to continue believing just that:

If DW is out for the year, the "best possible person under center" is NOT Brissett if Baker is still on the team. I don't care what kind of a turd gets eaten here nor do I care who eats it, but not trying to keep Baker with DW out and going then with Brissett flies in the face of why they went after DW in the first place.

Here's the new twist in my thought process here:

If they were ok with rolling with Brissett, why didn't they unload Baker months ago? Beat the Redskins to the punch and trade Baker there...he's better than Wentz. Or trade him to another team BEFORE they reached the reality of desperation?

The DW foul up is only part of their QB boneheadedness here...not unloading Baker earlier (IF Brissett was viewed as good enough) is the double-down.

Opinions on just how good Baker is varies dramatically on here. That's not going to change no matter how much info comes out. I don't want to get into a war about it yet again, so I will just that I don't think the Brown's FO are even close to being boneheads.

Here are the exceptions to what I said (as I see it).

-They can unload some/all of Baker's cap hit, allowing them to sign another FA that plugs a hole and/or get an asset back in return... especially if this is a player such as a DT or WR.
-They believe (as I do) that the supporting cast, being healthier than they were last year, makes Brissett starting more doable. IMO, I don't think they see it this way, but that's also me trying to get into their heads. I think this group has strong opinions regarding putting the best possible person under center.


Not trying to do a 180. It's a complicated question with lots still up in the air (namely Watson's status for the season and Baker's shoulder). I just think that if Watson's suspension is such that Baker is the best option for this season, and it comes down to the FO having to 'eat poo' (as you say), then this is a non-issue and we should get ready for 6 Week1.

If DW gets a year off, all that matters is whether Baker is better than Brissett. You are allowed to think he is not.

You are also allowed to think the QB moves by the front office this off-season have NOT been boneheaded. I don't think they could have handled this any worse if they had actually TRIED to screw it up.

I say that there is zero chance of it happening.

I don't see this FO (particularly the HC) swallowing pride and reaching out to Baker.
I don't see Baker wanting to put the old uniform back on.
I think they have made peace with the notion that they are "All In" on their plan, Come Hell or High Water.
I do NOT think there is a continuation of some altruistic "we just want the best person under center". I think they want "the best person under center that isn't the guy we tossed aside".
I do NOT think they want to enter into any action that opens up reasons for people to further question and criticise this trade, which would DEFINITELY happen if Baker plays and we do well enough to make the playoffs or more.

I think you are spot on there. I'll add these in order:

If DW is out, the FO+ should reach out to Baker...but I doubt they will. And not doing so would be egregious IMO;
Baker may not "want" to put the uni back on, but he isn't walking away from $19MM. So his return - or not - is squarely on the FO+;
I hope they are all in on their plan - whether one likes it or not;
They may acknowledge privately that Baker is better than Brissett BUT not worth the headache Baker gives them;
That would be sad if they'd rather lose and look "good" than "win" and eat some crow. That's not a hallmark of a championship entity...especially given the draft capital and cap $$$ flushed away as part of it all.

If the Browns invite Baker to TC, he has to come if he wants to collect that $18.8M. If he wants offers in his FA year next spring, he needs to appear and play well. The only thing that needs addressing by the Browns *might* be an agreement not to use the franchise tag in 2023, but even that is probably unlikely enough to ignore. The ball is entirely in the Browns court in the event that Watson is out for 10 or more games. He should have told the reporter asking the questions at his camp "You're asking the wrong guy.".

j/c:

Hopefully, Baker will be traded soon. If a team wants him, it seems likely they would want him there at the start of TC. He can then become another team's problem and not ours.

IMO he already said that ^ (underlined) when he stated that a reunion would require "some reaching out". That left the door wide open for the FO+ to invite him to TC.

Our problem would then be bigger than Baker. The problem would be with every QB remaining on the roster...ith all of those eligible not being as good a QB as Baker. I'd like to have a winning team and Baker gives us the best chance between him, Brissett and Dobbs.

I was watching First Take this morning and they were talking about that the Browns don't view Baker as a Super Bowl qb. Neither do I. As I have said several times, if Watson does not play we have no chance of winning the Super Bowl. I also think--but do not know---that the Browns might think that Brissett is a better fit than Baker w/the team. While I think Baker has a higher ceiling than JB, I also feel he is a lower floor. JB will bring some maturity and less inconsistent play even though he is rather inconsistent himself. He should also be a better fit w/our OL, RBs, and Stefanski should be able to scheme around that. But again, we aren't going to the dance w/out Watson.

I should add they said the Browns should trade Baker to Seattle and then trade for Jimmy G. Not sure if that is feasible, but I forgot to add it earlier.

Here is the reality some seem to be missing in all of this. Baker led this team to the playoffs in 2020 when he was actually healthy. In an injury riddled season he performed poorly. Now here's the rub the Browns are facing. Baker will be 100% healthy going into the 2022 season. We all saw, even though some refuse to admit it, when he was healthy in 2020 and before he was injured in 2021.

Can you imagine the backlash the Browns would receive if they allowed Baker to play and he led the team the the payoffs again? If he comes out ripping it and winning like they did in 2020? That's a risk they know they would be taking. They have also seen and watched him do that in 2020. Can you imagine how much worse this watson debacle would look then?

Don't expect them to take that risk. At this point they can't afford any more heat than they've already brought upon themselves.

Fair enough (except the maturity issue that is overblown IMO). The players know the deal. If Baker gives them a better chance to win than does Brissett, the players know that. Rolling with an inferior QB...self-inflicted and on-purpose...should go over like a fart in church.

Baker was quite consistent in the 9.25 games or so before his injury that blew up '21. He still had his warts...but if we assume those warts still exist after he's healed up, then it is fair to also assume that the same Baker from those 9.25 games is still in him. That Baker - with Landry/Higgins/Hooper - was reasonably one Higgins-fumble away from playing in the AFC Conference Championship game. Brissett could never do what Baker did over that span of time...with much less talent to throw to then than now.

FWIW: I think the First Take guys are wildly lazy. Too much glitz and not enough substance...especially in this dead time. Trade what for Jimmy G? Jimmy is no more mobile than is a healthy Baker. You have already opined about the $25MM or so guaranteed that JG carries...with a possibly still-healing throwing shoulder.

The FO won't ask him back...but they should.

Healthy Baker last year. Nearly 2 full games at 80% completion . Injured. 57% completion . ( I posted the stats before and I'm going from memory) That was flowing 2020 last 9 games top 5 PFF grade.

Do I think 2022 is a top 5 QB or likely to throw for 80%? No. But I expect him to be wayyyy above 57%.

If folks think we can get to the playoffs with steady play from Brissett we could go further and deeper with BM.... But I agree with others, it ain't happ. No way, no how.

Why is it when posters bring up Baker's 80% completion %
That's the only stat they bring up
They seem to easily overlook he threw for more INTS than TDS.
Let's face it. The Chiefs and Texans werent exactly the best in pass defense
Teams passed on them easily in 2022
Defenses figured out keeping Mayfield in the pocket
His 5'10 height would work in their favor
Sorry, his injury was not connected to his ability to process coverages

I gave you facts. You gave me opinions. And Some would call it a lie when you call a 6 ft QB 5'-10"

So purple, our front office won’t reach out to baker because…… they are afraid he will have too much success??? Maybe lead us to the playoffs?? Holy cow!!! That would be just awful!! Apparently they are not aware of two things. First browns fans would really enjoy a run like that ( we are entitled to a little enjoyment aren’t we??) and second if baker led us to a season like that his value on the trade market would go up exponentially. Who knows what he would be worth after a really good season compared to after an injury wracked crappy season.

It our guys are that insecure and so prideful they would not do what was best for the team, maybe we have the wrong guys up there.

Everyone is entitled to their opinions, but that comment is a long, long way from a fact. I don't believe that for a second. And no one who isn't a bigger Baker fan than a Brown's fan believes it either.

6'1

6' 0⅝"

Just joshing w/you, Super.

That's an interesting way of re-wording what I wrote, but, essentially, yes.

For one, the fact that fans might enjoy something is NOT part of any equation outside of the sales and marketing departments. Period. So, the fact that some fans may feel some entitlements to something has no bearing on anything, whatsoever.

Yes, it WOULD boost his value... for an offseason contract in free agency. If you think they'd roll with him because he's the better option at QB, have enough success to boost his value dramatically and still trade him before Week 10 and risk plunging the team into a losing streak under Brisket, I would say that you'd be delusional. As he plays better, he's going to require higher picks in a trade, but his contract is up at the end of the season. Nobody is giving up big picks mid-season for a half season rental, and he isn't going to agree to an extension with any team he doesn't want to go to.... so, he's hitting free agency where there will be LOTS of bidders that won't have to give up picks.
So, since we now know he wouldn't boost his value for a trade during the season, that part is moot.

That leaves us with the altruistic notion that they'd simply play him because he gives us the best chance to win..... I simply don't believe this FO will do that. I don't think it matters because I think he's going to be traded before camps open, but if he isn't, I think he's sitting... or, at best, he'll be 4th string. I *firmly* believe that there is no chance this front office has the stones to risk the public backlash and making this trade even worse by having the QB they're discarding go out and show that they wasted a ton of picks and even more Cap capital to bring in a guy that can't even replace him this year. And no, Vers, this isn't about being a "Baker fan" and not a "Browns fan". It's strictly about this FO and their decision making around this whole debacle.

Well, if say he is the 4th QB and the other three stink it up while Mayfield sits, the public backlash will be like a Tsunami on the shores of Lake Erie.

That said, I can’t see them going into the season with Baker within a thousand miles of Ohio.

My opinion is that NFL FO and coaching jobs are tenuous at best. The turnover rate is extremely high. Bill Belichick got fired. I don't believe that any of these guys would risk their jobs because they are afraid of Baker showing them up. They do what they think is best to win because it aides in their job security. One could argue that they make wrong decisions, but they don't intentionally lessen their chances of winning. No way.

If Watson is gone for the season, If I'm Baker I come back for the last year of my rookie contract. He is not looking at being a stsarter anywhere else at this point. He knows he is gone at the end of the year, so why not and earn a big payday. If he played and the Browns have a good year, he, knowing he will be a free agent, could cash in on a big payday. No, it won't be in Cleveland, but at this point, it don't matter. He can play for a contract. Take this team to the playoffs, and the offers would be flooding in at the end of the year.

This topic is meaningless unless you are somehow convincing Jimmy (or Dee?) Haslam...
They've gutted the quarterback room on 3 separate or more occasions,

I wish as an organization they would stick by their man, I mean, it was only a couple 1000+ days ago that they drafted Baker #1 overall, and already they act all, telegraph- telephone-=obsolete by the situation.
It really doesn't matter, but
I gurarntee one thing, How I feel about ...
at this point I'm so non plussed ...

Baker didn't lose 12 games a year, even 3 out of 4 years, let's not pretend that the Browns with Baker, were on the same level as the Browns in the 2009-2011 years range.
The Cowboys stuck by Dak, through a bad year, and the Vikings stuck by Kirk Cousins through a bad year,

heck! anything less than 11 wins is cause for a fire-sale in the Haslams book nevermind how things might improve the following year if they'd take a hands off approach for once. Zero, or one wins... or 11 wins or more, anything else = blow it all up.
Not the coolest idea. (analytics)

I get that, and normally I may even go along with it. I just don't feel it happening here. We're All-In and will double-down on Basset.

And, with this team's luck he actually will play like Tyrod and get injured in his first series and we'll be down to the dude whose name I haven't even bothered to learn.

Do you or Prppl, either one, really think that the Buck doesn't stop with Jimmy Haslam, and there is nothing the Browns FO is going to do that doesn't have the Haslams' approval, and they are really not with the authority to do their own thing, or go rogue, or go out on their own limb.
" They do what they think is best to win because it aides in their job security"

( Well only if it doesn't directly contradict the owner who has the firing authority on their jobs, at an "at will" basis.)

It doesn't matter if they Win more, (for their job security), if it means the Browns' Owner loses Face in the (#1) contest that he got in with his franchise quarterback.
If Berry, or whomever is in the FO, goes against the Owner, and makes the Owner(s) look bad, then the Front Office will be fired before the ink would dry.
So WHATEVER decision the FO appears to make, is HIGHLY influenced by the Whims of the team Owners.

(Whether that fits anyones' 'Baker is bad' narrative or not.) dream on. It wouldn't prove anything.

Best case scenario is we have Baker until DW is available. Front office needs to suck it up and make it happen.

" you can't see them going into the season with Baker within 1000 miles of Ohio."

How far is Detroit, the Lions. 50 miles. (stranger things have happened.)

I think you raise a good point about what happens if Brissett gets hurt. Dobbs has only thrown around 17 passes in the NFL. I think that is right. I was looking at available qbs earlier today and the pickings are slim.

I could be wrong, but I think both parties [Baker and the Browns] are done w/each other. I think it's past the point of either side "reaching out." We can debate who started it. The Browns went after Watson. Baker is the one who said it was in the best interests for both parties to part ways. But, who cares who started it? I just don't see an amicable reconciliation. Then again, I could be dead wrong.

In my mind I'd propose an unprecedented, perhaps, trade in the NFL, Detroit and Cleveland trade quarterbacks, with an additional caveat. The team, Browns or Lions, which finishes with a worse record in 2022-2023, also surrenders it's 2nd round pick to the other team in the April 2023 draft. Goff is no Mayfield, but he's not Brissett either, as in is better than, Either fan base could more accept it if there were the possibility of a 2nd round pick just by finishing with a better record, and it's just finishing better than the Lions, should be a piece of cake, and their side would feel the same way.
(No, no way I'd ever trade Baker, but if they' re going to.. ah Puke)

Actually versatile, I was just taking off from the final point in purple’s post up toward the top. Given that it is dang near a universal opinion that baker gives us the best chance to win this year, assuming dw not available, this might explain some of the reluctance to work with baker. You have to admit if baker played and lit it up, doubts about the trade might creep in with some folks. Neither that nor hurt feelings should keep us from playing our best qb.

Then we need a front office with bigger stones!!

I'm sorry he is 5'11. Look at him and Kyler Murray side by side
He is not 2 inches taller than Murray
I did give you facts
He threw for more INTS than TDS in the 1st 2 games
Defenses had success keeping Mayfield in the pocket
That's fact
It's unreal the love Baker gets around here.
Its like the Cheesecake Factory 24/7.
Baker isn't coming back to the Browns. But some people
Can't face that
But let's play hypotheticals.
If he came back to the Browns , the Browns arent a automatic
Playoff team with him.

No one is an automatic. How’s my ex-girlfriend treatin ya these days?

Our freaky QB will be out for 2022, it seems. If he plays in 2023, that’s a long time between NFL snaps. The thought of Jacoby and Dobbs being our top 2 in the room?

Demoralizing. What a crap show this is turning into. Haslam done good for a bit there, couple seasons.

We want ya back, Bake.

Baker is over in Cleveland. Give up the dream.

Watson ends up with 8 games. Brissett at QB brings us 5 wins in those 8 games. 4 at worst. I think it time to face the music.

Even if Watson is out the year, we still push for playoffs. QB's don't win game by themself. We have a good team and I have faith in the other players on this team to chip in for wins.

If we had to sit through crappy QB's like Frye, Weeden, and a host of others on crappy teams, I can sit through Brissett on a very good team because Brissett is better than those other QB's.

That is just a general comment.

Well it looks like the suspension will not be for the season and it could get low. I didn't think there was a chance for reconciling and Baker playing. I know my QB play and the kid is extremely accurate. We saw glimpses but for those who hated him as our QB refuse to acknowledge those feats. Regardless he is no longer our QB. DW looks like he will not be suspended indefinitely not even close. He better be as good as advertised...you can see he has the talent now lets see him put it together for victories. We are built to win this season like no other. I think Baker will be a SeaHawk before too long we might get a 2nd rounder. Good luck. Time to start the DW era...what I don't like is he is getting no help for his disease. He better not blow it and resume his scum bag ways. Cause then he will be gone forever.

jmho

I don't. And I don't think the Browns do either. It's hard for me to comprehend how overrated he is by some fans. He is not way, way better than Brissett. I also think that if Baker were to come back, his fans would be calling for Stefanski's head next year. It's always someone else's fault for Baker's issues. I just hope a trade happens in quick order so the team can move on and he can move on. Perhaps he learns from his mistakes? I love redemption stories and would like to see him get himself together. Somewhere else.

The way this has thus far unfolded with the Browns saying they've done all the due diligence, which I think they failed at, tells me they very well could be boneheads

I agree with you Peen,, Baker is done here.. it appears that he wants to be done as well.

I've said it before and think it bears repeating.

Long before the Watson trade and long before the 2021 season ended, both the Browns and Baker were pretty much done with each other.

Absolutely. Baker was never coming back this year. It was clear after the Steelers game and began after the Detroit game when he wouldn’t even speak to the media after the team actually won the game.

Baker should take his 18 million owed to him and retire whIle he still is very healthy
He is just another QB drafted high who failed to live up to expectations
Who knows he might make a really good football coach
In the NFL team success is so dependant on QB play.
He simply cannot get a team to any kind of championship game
He limits what a,offense can execute on Sundays

Yeah, there aren't any teams who signing a QB that has proven he can take his team to the playoffs and actually win a playoff game would be a huge improvement. The fact that some people can look at that evidence and proclaim that he has zero chance at taking a team to a SB are obviously agenda driven. I'm certainly not saying Baker is an elite QB. But the length people will go to, to try and act like he isn't an upgrade to a lot of staring QB's in this league are and he should instead move on to coaching? We see who you are.

I'm pretty sure he can't retire and still retain his salary, even if it is guaranteed. The think guarantee part covers injury or if the Browns release him, not voluntary retirement, unless the old "personal service contarct" days are back.

T.J Yates won a playoff game with the Texans
I watched David Woodley win a playoff game
Rex Grossman won playoff games.
Winning a playoff game does equate all the time
That the QB is the answer at QB.
If Baker is a,upgrade to the QB position for
Another team then that only means the bar
Is set low there

Did those QB's start the entire season and have a passer rating of 95.9 with 3,563 yards, 26 touchdowns and 8 int's?

It's obvious you're trying too hard.

I can't see Baker retiring. He's still one of the best 32 qbs in the league. He's young.

I agree, I was just responding to the thought that Baker could grab the $18 mill and run.

Yes and the following QBs won Super Bowls, tell me which ones are elite?
Trent Dilfer
Nick Foles
Joe Flacco
Brad Johnson
Jeff Hostetler

I could make an argument that Baker Mayfield is a better fundamental QB than all of those Super Bowl winning QBs. Joe Flacco was the only one even close to Baker's level and he was an eleven year starter in the NFL. I know we have all moved on from Baker, but let's not [censored] on his ability. If these guys could help a team win a Super Bowl (they make up 16% of the Super Bowl winning QBs), Baker Mayfield is capable of doing the same with a well built team around him.

The Browns and the NFL disagree w/your evaluation of Baker.

I'm well aware. And I will be proved wrong by sending him to a team wear Russell Wilson couldn't win either. He had a Baker Mayfield year last year with the latest version of the roster. Now, if they can make some quick headway with the roster and get it back up to snuff...then who knows.

Look, I'm not mad that they moved on from Baker. I don't mind in the least the team upgrading any position. It does depend on the "upgrade" and imho, this upgrade wasn't the massive leap everyone is making it out to be, especially when you take the mental off field issues that come along with him. We will see. Maybe he will be able to bury all of the distraction deep inside his skull and he will still be motivated to improve his craft even after being bribed to play in a place he didn't want to be with the biggest contract in NFL history. You are right, the odds are in your favor...

I like the way you present your arguments. We disagree on some things, but you always take the high road when presenting your points. I respect that.

4 of those Quarterbacks were elite, (Not Flacco), but I am sure of one thing. Jacoby Brissett, if he starts all 17 games this year, the Browns won't win more than 5 games. 5-12
Probably 4-13, or 3-14, so,
Baker, 8 wins + and in the mix in November, or,... on the other hand... multiple losing streaks while every broadcast talks about sex offenders.

Is that an upgrade at the Qb position?

If Brissett is going to start all 17 games, they shouldn't even put the Browns on Television, but the Browns ownership would still not get the message about holding on to their own players, or not getting those players in the first place.

But today I feel, If Brissett is going to start all 17 games for the Browns in 2022, they ought to just show other teams on Columbus Television.
There are 31 NFL teams, that don't trade the entire future for a player the caliber of a top Qb
and then
ask you to sit through a whole year with a quarterback you are sure is even worse than Danny (NY Giants QB) who is the worst you can think of in the entire NFL.

Why not just say, "Good boy. Would you like a treat?"

But, will Mayfield play for the Browns this year...?

It seems that some board member forgot about this thread and would rather spam other threads with their "uncontrollable desire" to discuss all things Baker Mayfield in what ever thread they happen to be posting in. So, rather than spamming another thread with Mayfield discussion, I will attempt to revive this Mayfield thread.

NO, Baker Mayfield will not play for the Browns this year or ANY YEAR, for that matter.

It's obvious to me that the Browns owner and front office are hesitant to trade Mayfield at this time, therefore Mayfield is forced to sit in limbo with the Browns in full control...they won't trade him and they won't allow him on the practice field. Mayfield is ready to move...but Jimmy Haslam and Andy Berry are not so sure they want to part with Mayfield.

Two things. It was a pair of Baker supporters who brought up Baker in the Watson thread. Once that occured, others are free to weigh in even if you don't give your approval.

Also, do you have proof that a team has made a legitimate offer to trade for Baker?

Probably no more than you have proof that one hasn't. And legitimate is a tricky term to use. Whether one can actually believe them or not there have been reports everywhere that the Browns and Panthers have actually discussed terms of the trade for Baker but the Browns didn't like the terms due to how much of Baker's salary they would have to eat.

So you have set it up in a way that you can dismiss all of those reports by saying they can't be proven or you could claim that what you see as a low ball offer isn't a "legitimate offer". It's a trick question you can easily dodge no matter what response he gives.

I agree that you can't just accept media reports. But we also know that teams will not reveal any details or make statements that involve ongoing negotiations involving players. So you have framed a question in a manner you know there is no answer to.

j/c:

Better PFF grade than Baker last year.. Perfect,,

This guy is full of it.

1. Keenum is better than Brisset,.,

2. Judging Baker on a year where he was injured is stupid..

Its funny how Baker's 2020 season is supposed to be
The only standard used to draw a opinion on Baker
It's like 2021 is supposed to be thrown away
How did his injury affect his inability to read or diagnosis
Defenses. ?
Even Baker admitted as much he lost his confidence
In 2021. Yet he still kept insisting he was well enough
To start

The Browns FO disagrees w/you. Also, the Browns and other teams have had 4 years to evaluate Baker. They are not stupid.

https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.c...ng-about-making-a-run-at-baker-mayfield/

Which teams should be thinking about making a run at Baker Mayfield?
Posted by Mike Florio on July 3, 2022, 7:40 PM EDT

For weeks, two teams have been linked to Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield — the Panthers and the Seahawks. With all teams in position to study film from offseason workouts and with plenty of teams perhaps not having clear answers at the position, which teams should be at least pondering the possibility of a potential upgrade from their current projected starter to Mayfield?

On this weekend featuring not much actual news, now is as good a time as any to try to identify the universe of teams that should at least be thinking about Mayfield. Here they are, in no particular order.

The Browns.

If Judge Sue L. Robinson decides that Deshaun Watson should miss the entire season, or if on appeal the Commissioner makes that ruling, the Browns will need a quarterback for all of 2022. Mayfield makes the most sense, on paper. Unfortunately, the bridge between Baker and the Browns has been obliterated. The only way to mend fences would be for the Browns to offer him more money and an unimpeded path to the open market in 2023. Even then, it’s probably not enough.

The Steelers.

When the Steelers made quarterback Kenny Pickett the 20th overall pick in the draft, the door seemingly slammed on the possibility of Mayfield making a beeline to the ‘Burgh if he’s ultimately cut by the Browns. But with Pickett by all appearances not ready to play, isn’t Mayfield (if healthy) a better option than Mitch Trubisky? Mayfield definitely is. And while that would be an intriguing answer for 2022, it could throw a wrench in the plans for 2023, if the Steelers have a great year with Mayfield. Some would call that a good problem to have.

The Panthers.

They’re reportedly still haggling with the Browns over the amount of money the two teams would pay toward Mayfield’s 2022 guaranteed salary of $18.8 million. At some point, the logjam needs to be broken. If the Panthers wait too long, one of these other teams may snatch him.

The Falcons.

Baker Mayfield is a better option than Marcus Mariota. Maybe the Falcons will come to terms with that during the slow weeks. Maybe they’ll realize that it won’t get any easier to get people to buy tickets and attend games absent a quarterback who plays well enough to make an NFC South also-ran into a potential contender.

The Seahawks.

Despite periodic reports of significant interest, they’ve done nothing to demonstrate it clearly and conclusively. Maybe they’re simply playing the cards close to the vest in the hopes that he’ll eventually be released. Regardless, the Seahawks are doing a good job of selling the idea that they’re comfortable with Geno Smith or that new darling of the U.S. Open, Drew Lock.

The Saints.

They were one of the teams pursuing Deshaun Watson. That necessarily makes them a potential contender for Mayfield, despite the presence of Jameis Winston. Maybe the Saints genuinely believe that Winston when healthy is better than Mayfield when healthy. Reasonable minds definitely would differ on that point.

The Lions.

Those familiar with this specific web destination may remember that I’ve been trying to type this one into existence. Mayfield is better than Jared Goff. Period. And Mayfield much better fits the current vibe that coach Dan Campbell is trying to create than the California kid who landed in what must feel to him like Bizarro Oz.

The Giants.

The new power structure didn’t pick up the fifth-year option on Daniel Jones. Although they refuse to explain it this way, they basically are betting that he won’t be good enough to make them want to apply the much pricier franchise tag in 2023. Isn’t Mayfield better and more accomplished than Jones? Yes and yes. If the Giants aren’t sold that Jones will be the guy for 2023, why not grab Mayfield now and see if he can become the future for a team that is still trying to adequately replace Eli Manning?

The Texans.

They claim to be all in with Davis Mills. And, in fairness to Mills, he’s possibly working his way toward a fairly high ceiling. Still, if the goal is to win now, Mayfield is the better option. And while they could have had him as part of the Watson trade, the Browns likely would have placed too much value on Mayfield at the time. As part of a separate transaction, the Texans possibly could get him for a lot less.

The 49ers.

Could the best bridge to the Trey Lance era not be Jimmy G. but Baker Mayfield? Maybe. But they’ll be far better off letting Lance commence the process of becoming the best version of himself that he eventually will be.

The Dolphins.

I know I said I’d list the teams in no particular order, but I saved this one for last. TuAnon won’t like this, one bit. But let’s be fair. Mayfield, when healthy, can do much more than Tua has ever done. And with Mike McDaniel drawing up the plays, Mayfield could be exactly what the Dolphins need to hit their full potential in 2022 and beyond. If they can get him for cheap, they definitely should consider it. Even if they won’t.

That’s the full list. It probably means he’ll end up with a team that didn’t make the cut. Regardless, if he’s healthy, Mayfield has the ability to be very good. He could be the difference between making the playoffs and not qualifying. He could be the difference between one-and-out and winning a playoff game or two. Don’t let a 2021 season marred by a nasty Week Two shoulder injury cloud that reality.

It is strange that Berry is criticized for not cutting Baker by some.

Berry is no fool on a hill. A market for Baker will happen.

Berry is going to get a return. You don't give a NFL starter away. Make no mistake Baker is a starting quarterback.

If we get a third or a player we can use. All good with that. Baker will not play for the Browns again.

Camp begins in a few weeks. Something will get done.

Steelers.... well, that would be an interesting place for him to land.

I don't believe that.. If not for the trade for Watson, Baker would be here for at least this year. Beyond that, who knows.

Too bad you don't have a clue what you're talking about...smh

So any news on a trade are we holding back on purpose as a last dig against Baker??? If its the Panthers then its more than a did...it would benefit us to have Baker get the least amount of time to work out with the team before our 1st game.

jmho

It was reported that the Seahawks were close to a deal then a mystery team appeared?

Speculation ran wild. Bucs, and a bunch of teams were mentioned.

I would not be surprised if the Giants have interest. They are at the end of the rope with Daniel Jones. He is backed up by Tyrod and Davis Webb.

Mara and Steve Tisch the co-owners have grown impatient with losing and Jones.

I would not want to go into this season with their qb room. In no way can you be confident in a winning season.

Good morning . Hope you had a,holiday weekend
Now can you elaborate when you said YOU DON'T HAVE CLUE WHAT YOUR TALKING ABOUT.

cause Baker most indeed did say he lost his confidence.
2nd. Explain to me how Bakers injury caused him
To throw for INTs than TDs in the 2nd half of 2021?
And did his injury relate to him having among the leagues
Worst rating in the 4th q. Of games.

Maybe for once you can admit you were wrong in a Browns
Draft pick. Every year you hype up become a cheerleader
For a player and come to find out, he falls short of
Your hype.
We have all hyped up rookies and they don't pan out.
Just admit it, Baker isn't what you hyped him up to be.
Him,Veikune, Warren .......etc

I think a decision will be made before TC. It feels to me like Seattle are the most likely destination. They can win now - most of the other teams who on paper need an upgrade at QB have much less talent and why give up draft capital when you are a bad team and any deal might net you a one year rental?

Personally I'd like to see Seattle make the trade - I think it'd give us a chance to see who the real Baker is/can be. People judge him on his injury season, some point to his good run in 2020... the truth is probably in between BUT is that truth closer to good Baker which might make him a top 12 QB in the NFL. Or is it bad Baker and then he might be a bottom 5 QB in the NFL.

I don't think it's a dig at Baker at all.

I truly believe Berry has a perceived value for a 4 year starting QB with a playoff win one year removed. Unless he gets that perceived value, there is no reason to cut him, trade him for lessor value, etc. as long as they are in the 90 man off season roster status. Baker taking up one of the 90 means absolutely nothing. Now.. If/when the suspension is handed down, that could elevate the time table to move him. If Watson gets a full year, it could motivate a team that wants him(I'm looking at you Seahawks) to give something closer to what Berry is asking. Right now, every team perceives the Browns needing to cut Baker by July 26th, the day before training camp opens... I'm not sold that it needs to happen then, or at all. Even if they pay him to sit at home, he WILL have a higher trade value before the trade deadline, if/when a starter goes down. Especially on a team that is playoff ready. Not enough starters to go around, even less backups that are good enough to lead a team to the playoffs.

Speaking of which, Jacoby Brissett is that type of player. Those that think he is going to lead this team to the playoffs need to do more evaluating of his two years as a starter. He will get the Browns close to .500, which is about as good as an injured Mayfield did for this team. His best season ever was 2019 when he went 7-8 with a team that had a 1,000 yard rusher in Marlon Mack, what they didn't have was a 1,00 yard receiver of any kind, not even close as the leading receiver was Zach Pascal with 607 yards and 5 TDs. TY Hilton, worst yards per target of his career, 1.5 yards below his average. Jack Doyle had a 6.2 and 6.4 YPT during the two years Brissett started for the Colts, the years, before, in between and after those two seasons? 7.8, 7.4, 7.6.... It isn't a coincidence. If/when Brissett is named the starter, just know the filed just got a lot smaller for the defense to scheme against.

For comparison sake when it comes to stretching the field. In 2017 and 2019, when Brissett was a starter, this was a list of YPT for all receivers getting 25 or more targets

2017
TY Hilton 8.9
Donte Moncrief 8.3
Chester Rogers 7.7
Marlon Mack 6.8
Frank Gore, Jack Doyle 6.4
KAmar Aiken(44 targets) 3.0

2019
Zach Pascal, Marcus Johnson 8.4
TY Hilton 7.4
Eric Ebron 7.2
Chester Rodgers 6.4
Jack Doyle 6.2
Nyheim Hines 5.5
Parris Campbell 5.3

To put it into perspective, Baker's worst years 2019 and 2021(hurt)
2019
Jarvis Landry 8.5
Damien Ratley 8.3
OBJ 7.8
Kareem Hunt 6.5
Nick Chubb 5.7
Demetrius Harris 5.5

2021
Donovan Peoples-Jones 10.3
David Njoku 9.0
Harrison Bryant 8.3
Nick Chubb 7.0
OBJ 6.8
Jarvis Landry 6.6
Kareem Hunt 6.4
Hollywood Higgins, Anthony Schwartz 5.9
Austin Hooper 5.7
D'Earnest Johnson 5.5

Baker during his best(and healthy) season
2020
Donovan People-Jones 15.2
Hollywood Higgins 11.5
Jarvis Landry, OBJ 8.3
David Njoku 7.3
Harrison Bryant 6.3
Austin Hooper 6.2
Kareem Hunt 6.0

Again, this isn't a pull for Baker, Watson's skillset is better than Mayfield without a doubt.. But Brissett is a whole other level of below mediocre QB.

IF Watson were to be suspended. The Browns should eat whatever flavor of crow is needed to beg Mayfield to play his final year out in Cleveland for his next contract if they truly want the best option on the field. As for Baker, he will have a whole set of suitors in the 2023 off-season if he could play a healthy year and take the Browns back to the playoffs. He isn't taking either the Seahawks or Panthers to the playoffs... Despite how he feels about the Browns front office, Cleveland is the best opportunity to showcase any skills he possesses. Then he can stick up the middle finger on the way out the door if he so desires.

I know...burnt bridges, yada yada yada... Be professional on both sides and get him training camp if Watson is suspended for the year. I don't care if you don't like Baker, he gives them the best chance to win. Sorry, but you are delusional if you think otherwise with Brissett, imho.

There is a wide divide regarding Baker as a QB and how much of a factor his injury had on his performance. On this board and quite a few Browns' fans in general along w/a small smattering of people paid to give their opinions you have those that think that Baker is a good qb and that his injury severely hindered his play last year.

On the other hand, there are people like me, guys like Jake Burns, and most media members including former players who think that Baker is very limited as a qb and that most of his poor play had very little to do w/his injuries. We feel that being forced to throw from the pocket, his poor pre-snap reads, terrible post-snap reads, holding the ball too long, and poor vision were huge factors in his play. Many also question his maturity.

Thus, we are never going to reach a common ground on this subject. I really thought that people on this board would finally see the light due to his performance and actions and also how we were so willing to move on from him and how other teams have not placed much value on him, but that did not occur. In fact, people have dug their heels in and typically reply w/attacking the messenger and making things personal.

Who do you think gives the Browns a better chance to win? Baker or Jacoby? That is the ONLY Baker-related thing being presented on this board for months now. You are the only poster here concerned with evaluating Baker...there is no common ground to meet on anymore. Baker or Jacoby is the only debate that matters at the moment.

Ok (kkkkkkkjjjjkjkkkjjjjjjjjjuujhhjj I at it not how Jacoby gives the Browns a mature QB. Brissett isn't going to try to be something he is not.
I think he keeps his ego in check
Some QBS that become journeymen QBs, they are a bit more humble , a little more
AppreciatIve when they have a chance to start.
I think Baker had moments where he tried to hard to be BAKER
Instead of whats best for the team.
Brissett doesn't need a "chip on his shoulder " to be move the chains
That's just a cliche covering up for Baker's short comings as a,QB.

I'm shocked you didn't see tour own reflection as you typed this.

"Mature" doesn't count on my list of QB needs. Can he go through 2 or more progressions, can he throw an out pattern, can he throw the ball on a rope 20 yards down field, can he throw a ball 40 yards down the field without it going so high in the air a safety can camp under it, can he step up in the pocket, can he read a blitz, can he see a disguised defense, can he throw the ball over his line, can he hit timing patterns at a very high percentage, will he check down when his 3rd read is covered, will he slide when not going for an absolute need outside a critical minute of a game, can he throw the receiver to the sideline to protect against a defender? These are all aspects of QB play that will help you to win ball games. I put in some obvious one's that Baker doesn't rank high on the list of, but I don't think mature or appreciation that someone is letting them start some games because the better QB isn't available qualifies to moving the sticks.

The statement was made above, this isn't about Baker Mayfield and how many of these traits he has.... The question on this thread is, which QB between Baker and Jacoby have more? I think it is clear that Baker has more traits to move the chains than does Jacoby. If the coaching staff thinks the same, then if Watson is suspended for 10 games or more, Baker needs to stay, even if that means the coaches, GM and OWNER have to me "mature" and fly to him to talk to him about what is best for his career, as well as that of the team.

I am not sure. I think Baker is more talented, but I'm not sure if he helps us win. I am not saying JB gives us a better chance to win, either. What I think or you guys think doesn't really matter. It's what the Browns think and I don't think Baker is playing another down for the Browns.

The Spun

4 NFL Teams Are Rumored To Have Interest In Baker Mayfield
Alek Arend - 3h ago

There are four NFL teams starting to show interest in quarterback Baker Mayfield, per a report.

Mayfield is still a member of the Browns. Cleveland has been unable to find a trade partner yet, but that could soon change as training camp approaches.

According to a report, the Seattle Seahawks, Carolina Panthers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Detroit Lions all have interest in the former Oklahoma star.

The Panthers have long been rumored to be in the mix for Mayfield.

Matt Rhule is likely coaching for his job this upcoming season. To make matters worse, he doesn't have a clear-cut starter at quarterback. Insert Mayfield.

The veteran quarterback could help the Panthers win a few more games than they would without him later this fall.

The Seahawks are also in desperate need of a starting quarterback. Drew Lock and Geno Smith likely won't cut it.

Tampa Bay, meanwhile, obviously doesn't have a need for a starter anymore. Tom Brady has come out of retirement and will play this upcoming season. But how about bringing in an experienced backup in Mayfield?

If the Bucs like what they see, they could sign Mayfield to an extension and keep him around for the post-Brady era. It's worth a shot.

Where do you think Mayfield will end up next season?

I think he ends up in Detroit.
Dan Campbell has that same rah rah , chip on the shoulder , bite the shins mantra
That Baker has. I actually think Baker would be a upgrade over Goff.
Baker could go into Detroit and not be under pressure to win 10 games
Right away....Baker could play more loose.

Tampa. Because the Bucs know after Brady it will be tough to find a replacement. They have a good team and won't be picking anywhere near the top. It would be beneficial to the team and Baker to learn behind TB. JMO

j/c...

Since you don''t have a clue I won't elaborate too much.

With his injuries he could not throw with the shoulder turn and it was mostly all arm. What he saw and what he executed were two different things cause he went to make throws that he use to..and with the injury throwing all arm the ball did not react as it normally would and the velocity was not there. So the small window throws were a disaster. I do agree at the end his confidence was down cause he couldn't make the throws he was use to. What I don't understand is if in good health and the shoulder heals...btw you throw with the shoulder more than the arm. These negatives will not be there. Confidence will come back. I'm done with this subject. Baker is much better than you and others claim. This does not take away the prowess of Watson who btw I was a fan of his on draft day and defended him on this board. My only negative on him was his behavior in the massage room.

jmho - Hope your holiday was a joyful and blessed one.