Will Baker Mayfield Find Continued Success with the Browns?

Since the Cleveland Browns parted ways with Baker Mayfield before the 2022 season, he has played for several teams, including the Rams, Panthers, and Bucs. It is highly unlikely that he will return to the Browns, given these changes.

Scenes from Mayfield's Journey

Mayfield's career thus far has seen both highs and lows. In his rookie season in 2018, he performed well, making a strong impact on the field. However, his sophomore season in 2019 was less successful, raising questions about his long-term prospects. The early days of judgment are indeed premature, as careers are often shaped by subsequent performances and advancements.

Expected Starter for the Browns

At this moment, barring any unforeseen injuries, Mayfield is expected to remain the Browns' starting quarterback for the rest of his rookie deal. This is a significant development as it suggests stability and continuity within the franchise. The Browns have not had a quarterback remain as the coveted starter for a prolonged period since returning to the league in 1999, emphasizing the importance of this role. The term "franchise quarterback" typically refers to long-term, high-performing quarterbacks who are well-compensated, which is not a guarantee for Mayfield yet.

Potential Career Paths

Given his current position, Mayfield's career could take one of three different trajectories: He could follow the Marshawn Lynch (Mariota) route: This would involve him not reaching the level of performance teams desire from their starting quarterback. Despite starting most of his rookie deal with the Titans, it is evident that Tennessee is moving on from him, and he is likely to be a backup in the future. However, he will not be able to command the high salaries and contractual benefits that top-tier quarterbacks receive. Or, he could follow the Andy Dalton/Brett Hundley route: Mayfield could be good enough to warrant a second contract from the Browns, but not good enough to receive a top-dollar deal. Commonly, such contracts lock teams into mediocrity, meaning they will likely not see the great play expected from a top-tier quarterback. Nevertheless, these lower-cost contracts offer stability and prevent the high financial risks associated with drafting a mediocre quarterback. Finally, he might emerge as a star: If Mayfield significantly improves his play over the next two years, he could redefine the market and become one of the highest-paid players in football. This path would require consistent growth and performance, making it contingent on his ability to maintain and enhance his skills.

Conclusion

The future of Baker Mayfield with the Browns remains uncertain, but there are reasons for both hope and concern. Whether he can secure a long-term contract or establish himself as a franchise quarterback will depend on his future performances and the Browns' ability to support him. The key takeaway is that patience and performance are crucial as Mayfield continues to build his career in the NFL.