Tyrod Taylor, former Cleveland Browns starter, could be headed to Miami

It was expected that Tyrod Taylor would be the Cleveland Browns starter throughout 2018, but then Baker Mayfield hit the scene. Now, Taylor could be headed to Miami.

Fans rejoiced when general manager John Dorsey acquired Tyrod Taylor from the Buffalo Bills in exchange for a third-round pick last season. Taylor’s addition gave the Cleveland Browns arguably the most competent starting quarterback since they re-entered the NFL back in 1999.

Then, the Browns drafted Baker Mayfield first overall but still kept Taylor in the driver’s seat as he was supposed to serve as the bridge quarterback while Mayfield learned from the sidelines. That plan was derailed when Taylor suffered a concussion in Week 3 and the rookie made his debut on Thursday Night Football against the New York Jets.

Mayfield lit it up that week and was named the starter for the rest of the season after leading them to their first win since Christmas Eve of 2016. From there, all Mayfield did was break the Browns record for passing yards by a rookie and the NFL record for touchdown passes by a rookie as well.

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As for Taylor, he remained the consummate pro he has always been. He was prepared to play if ever needed, and that happened only once as he filled in while Mayfield being evaluated for a concussion of his own.

Taylor completed his only pass attempt for 11 yards against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 9, but then Baker was permitted to come back into the game and the veteran backup headed to the sidelines waiting just in case he was needed again.

Now a free agent, it looks like Taylor could be headed to South Beach as the Miami Dolphins are said to have interest in his services — as reported by Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk. Part of the equation here would be the eventual release of Ryan Tannehill, who has struggled with durability for several seasons in a row now.

Taylor heading to Miami would be a wise move on his part as it’s one of the few places left where a starting spot could be up for grabs. He may find himself in a similar situation as he was in Cleveland — holding the place for a rookie — but then again, he could surprise and keep the job longer than expected.

The NFL free agency period officially opens on Wednesday, but the ‘legal tampering’ period kicks off Monday at noon. Stay tuned to see what happens with Taylor and whether or not the Browns can find some new faces of their own.