3 Cleveland Browns quarterback options in 2022 that aren’t Baker Mayfield

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) throws during the fourth quarter of their game Sunday, November 21, 2021 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minn. The Minnesota Vikings beat the Green Bay Packers 34-31.Packers22 32
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) throws during the fourth quarter of their game Sunday, November 21, 2021 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minn. The Minnesota Vikings beat the Green Bay Packers 34-31.Packers22 32 /
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Cleveland Browns, Baker Mayfield
Jan 9, 2022; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) rushes with the ball during the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports /

Cleveland Browns QB option that isn’t Baker Mayfield No. 3: Marcus Mariota

After being the starting quarterback for the Titans for four seasons, Marcus Mariota has welcomed a backup role in the league for the last two years after being benched in his fifth season in Tennessee.  With Derek Carr on the roster, he really was never given a shot, but he will likely want to go to a team where he can compete as the starter.

Why would the Cleveland Browns be interested in Mariota? Number one, the price will be right. He is a guy that has proven he can win in the league and will come at a discount.

Mariota will have fresh legs and has elite athleticism which can be a huge benefit in the Kevin Stefanski offense. This is a guy you bring in and keep Mayfield on the roster. You won’t give him the job for Week 1 (unless earned), but he certainly keeps Baker Mayfield motivated to play his best.

Don’t get me wrong, there is a downside to this as well. Bringing in Mariota as a backup could create a lot of unnecessary drama. This league is a business, but it would likely upset Mayfield. He may not say much, but it could also add additional pressure which could lead to even more mistakes.

With Case Keenum looking like a possible cap casualty, I expect the Browns to sign another quarterback with some starting experience. Mariota may be the guy.