5 biggest concerns for the 2021 Cleveland Browns

Five pressing issues for the Cleveland Browns heading into the 2021 NFL season

Whether or not they get the respect they deserve from the national fanbase, the Cleveland Browns are legitimate Super Bowl contenders this season. The team is not perfect, however, and there are a number of legitimate concerns that must be addressed or avoided if the ultimate goal is to be achieved. Here are five of the biggest.

5. Baker Mayfield

For the first six games of the 2020 season, Baker Mayfield played poorly. It was extremely discouraging given his regression in 2019, and it seemed like the electric rookie he was in 2018 would never make another appearance.

Then, from Weeks 7 to 12, Mayfield improved. He wasn’t great, much he was much better than before. From Week 13 through the end of the season, Mayfield was one of the best passers in the NFL, despite having a less than ideal wide receiver situation. His play was excellent, and he was the biggest reason the team won their first playoff game in forever and nearly knocked off the defending world champions.

The signs are encouraging, and for the first time in his career, Mayfield will not have to learn a new offensive system over the offseason. He should take a step forward in 2021, and doing so would perhaps quiet some, but not all, of his persistent doubters.

Progression is rarely linear, and it has not been for Mayfield. Now, he finally has a chance to grow comfortable and develop, and can earn the lucrative contract extension that is within his grasp. It’s all up to him now.