Cleveland Browns: Baker Mayfield winning teammates over

Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Baker Mayfield hasn’t played a down in the NFL yet, but reports are suggesting he’s already earning teammate’s respect

There were several arguments for and against Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield as the potential No. 1 pick in the NFL for the Cleveland Browns. Both sides made valid points.

On one hand, there were concerns about his decision making. Mayfield was seen on video being taken down by cops while trying to flee a public intoxication incident. Those concerns were valid and the team was wise to vet that subject.

What seemed to have less validity to me was the height concerns. This was completely overblown as the question of how Mayfield would see over his linemen was already answered week in and week out as he played the actual game behind a tall offensive line.

As for those on the Baker-train, his accuracy and competitive nature were the sticking points. As good as he was throwing the ball though, the bravado he had was the biggest plus.

Mayfield has the skill, but on top of it he has the confidence. That always endeared him to his teammates at Oklahoma, and according to NFL Draft Insider Jared Tokarz, it’s already happening with the Browns during OTAs:

The key to that report is that players are ‘gravitating’ to Mayfield. That’s a huge part of being the leader of a franchise is having that charisma to get players to believe in you.

It’s been a long time since Cleveland has had that player under center and there’s a chance the Browns have that in Mayfield.

The plan still remains to be the same though, sit Mayfield this year as Tyrod Taylor starts — who could also be in the discussion for being a guy players truly believe in.

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The bottom line is, the Browns look to be good at the position for years to come.