Full list of Cleveland Browns set to be free agents in 2019
By Dan Justik
Tyrod Taylor
When the Cleveland Browns traded for Tyrod Taylor in March, they were expecting him to be their starting quarterback for 2018, while letting Mayfield sit and learn. But after a poor start to the season, Taylor was relegated to being Mayfield’s backup.
In four games this season, Taylor completed 49.4 percent of his passes for 473 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. He also rushed the ball 16 times for 125 yards and one touchdown.
Taylor is set to be a free agent after he and the Buffalo Bills restructured his contract during the 2017 off-season. He was originally signed through 2021, but he restructured his deal to void his contract following the 2018 season.
The expectation was that Taylor would continue his strong play at quarterback, and then he would be able to cash in with a lucrative contract following the 2018 season. Teams desire quarterbacks under the age of 30 on the market, which Taylor will be this off-season.
However, Taylor’s inefficiency this season makes it hard to see him getting the contract he expected to get back when he restructured his deal. Most teams have their starting quarterback, or they are in a position to select a quarterback in the draft.
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With Taylor unlikely to get a starting job, it may be worth the Browns explore if he is willing to return as the backup to Mayfield. Mayfield credited Taylor’s professionalism and helping him develop as the starter. With the two seemingly having a solid relationship, bringing Taylor back may be worth it for the Browns.
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