Cleveland Browns players putting in the work early and often for 2020

After a disappointing 2019, it appears members of the Cleveland Browns offense have accepted the challenge and begun working out in Austin, TX.

With stay at home orders beginning to let up from the COVID-19 pandemic, reports have surfaced that Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield has begun workouts with teammates. Mayfield who is an Austin, TX native has been working out in the area with wide receivers Rashard Higgins and Damion Ratley, as well as tight-ends David Njoku and freshly signed Austin Hooper.

Now, before continuing, let’s not make a big deal about Jarvis Landry and Odell Beckham not participating with the offensive skilled positions.

Both are rehabilitating from offseason surgeries and are not fully healthy to participate. While it’s unfortunate Beckham and Landry can’t participate, there is no need to read any further into it.

It remains to be seen if these workouts will have a major impact on the 2020 season, but after a year of looking out of sync with nearly every receiver on the roster, it is uplifting to see Mayfield and cast putting in the extra work. With a “virtual” offseason the only thing scheduled for NFL teams as of now, organizations with overhauled rosters and first-year coaches could be at a major disadvantage.

After a step back in the 2019 season, all eyes will be on Mayfield who appeared to think greatness could happen without putting in the work. After being humbled last season, a more mature Mayfield appears to be more motivated than ever and can become the franchise quarterback Cleveland has so desperately needed for 20 years.

Mayfield has played with a chip on his shoulder his entire career after having to walk on to Texas Tech and then transferring to Oklahoma as a walk-on once again. He proved all his doubters wrong by winning the Heisman Trophy in 2017 with over 85percent of the possible points.

Mayfield is used to the spotlight and will undoubtedly recover from a rough 2019 season. Remember, these professional athletes are human as well, and can be overwhelmed by hype and fame. Following a strong rookie campaign in 2018, complacency may have set in for Mayfield.

Knowing that hard work beats talent, look for Mayfield and the Browns to shine under new leadership from Kevin Stefanski in 2020.