Baker Mayfield wants to be traded by the Cleveland Browns. The Cleveland Browns want to trade Baker Mayfield.
Maybe the best way for that to happen is for Mayfield to simply show up in Cleveland.
After trading for Deshaun Watson last month, the Browns don’t have any need for Mayfield, who asked out of Cleveland as the organization courted Watson. But now, most every team either has their quarterback situation figured out or is likely to address it in the draft, leaving Mayfield in no man's land.
The Seattle Seahawks, Detroit Lions, Carolina Panthers and, to a lesser extent, Pittsburgh Steelers all have been linked to Mayfield. But he’s owed a ton of money next season and the Browns have no trade leverage, so this awkward dance all but certainly will continue on through the draft, and potentially much longer.
Waiting forever does Mayfield no good, especially if he wants to get into a team’s system and have a legitimate shot of winning their starting quarterback job.
And during an appearance Monday on the “Rich Eisen Show”, MMQB NFL insider Albert Breer made a suggestion: Mayfield should report to Browns camp.
“I think it comes down to if Baker wants to force the issue, and I think one thing he can do if he desires to do that – and I’ve said this a few different places, Rich – show up to the offseason program," Breer said. "If you show up that becomes a problem for the team, they just want you to go away. So, maybe he shows up to the offseason program and tries to force the issue.”
For what it's worth, a report last month indicated Mayfield was working out with free agent wideouts and was unlikely to report to Browns camp. Mayfield is under contract with the Browns, so he is well within his rights to show up to the offseason program, which likely will start in May.
The situation and its awkwardness would be next level, but one would think it could work.
Related
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow Audacy Sports
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram