Cleveland Browns: This is Baker Mayfield’s Team Now

Baker Mayfield wasn’t even supposed to see live NFL action this season. But from the moment he stepped in for a possibly concussed Tyrod Taylor, the Cleveland Browns became his team.

In Hue Jackson and John Dorsey’s perfect world, Baker Mayfield would have never seen the field this season for the Cleveland Browns. Dorsey is clearly of the “sit and learn” philosophy on his quarterbacks, as seen in both Patrick Mahomes and Aaron Rodgers. Dorsey had a hand in drafting both, then proceeded to sit both for some amount of time, and they both seem to be pretty well off.

This season, Baker Mayfield was the apple of Dorsey’s quarterback eye. Baker is Dorsey’s Ferrari, and it’s okay to want to keep such a nice car polished and looking good for guests. But sometimes, a la Ferris Bueller, you have to take that Ferrari out for a spin.

Although, the circumstances by which said Ferrari was taken out for the first time might not have been ideal. Starting quarterback Tyrod Taylor came out of the game in the second quarter, with possible concussion symptoms. On the very next play, Baker Mayfield took over under center. And somehow, someway, the offense looked completely different.

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Cleveland’s offensive unit went from zero to hero, from anemic to explosive, with just one personnel change. Mayfield’s offensive line, receivers, running backs, and coaches were all the same as Taylor’s. And yet, something just clicked as soon as the rookie came onto the playing field. The play-calling opened up, as did the run game and the passing lanes. From the moment that Mayfield led his first drive, it was clear just who the quarterback going forward would be.

In the end, The Baker cooked up quite a treat for Browns fans: a 21-17 victory over the Jets, Cleveland’s first victory since 2016. Mayfield completed 17-23 passes for 201 yards and a 73.9% completion rating. The quarterback play looked professional, the defense did their part, and the Browns looked like a real NFL team.

Before we get too carried away, Tyrod Taylor has been nothing but a consummate pro. But make no mistake, Baker Mayfield is the right man for the job at the Browns’ quarterback position.

As for the official decision, nothing has come from head coach Hue Jackson yet. Of course, Jackson has said he “has to look at the tape.” Hue Jackson can watch the tape as much as he wants. It is clear as day that Baker Mayfield should, and likely will, be the Browns’ starter going forward.