When Baker Mayfield steps onto the field in Cleveland on Sunday, the emotions will be swirling. But for now, the Bucs quarterback is choosing grace over grudges.
Mayfield's exit from the Browns was messy, to say the least. After leading Cleveland to its first playoff win in decades, he was shipped out to make room for Deshaun Watson. Yet, as he faced the media on Wednesday, the former No. 1 pick didn't take the bait. Instead, he reflected on the journey with a sense of appreciation.
“Yeah, I mean, with any experience, there’s ups and downs, good and bad. Ultimately, you remember the good more so than the bad,” Mayfield said. “Yeah, first time having a playoff win since ’94 there. And going on the road and doing it in Pittsburgh.”
That wild-card victory over the Steelers in January 2021 was a franchise milestone, snapping a 26-year drought. For Mayfield, it's a memory that outweighs the bitterness of his departure. “So, a lot of good memories there. A lot of teammates that are friends for life,” he added. “But like I said earlier, it’s a very different building now.”
Indeed, the Browns have moved on, but their quarterback situation remains a hot topic. With Watson struggling in Week 1, some fans are already calling for a change. Meanwhile, Mayfield is focused on his own redemption arc after a rough opener.
The Bucs signal-caller fumbled three times in a loss to the Bengals, a performance he's eager to put behind him. His remedy? Going back to basics. “Taking it one day at a time, making sure that you harp on little details … really focusing on the small details,” Mayfield explained. “And so, when you do that, good things will happen on Sundays. So, for me, focusing on that and then when the lights come on, you get out there and play, it’s time to go — let it loose.”
That fire is exactly what Tampa Bay needs. But ball security will be paramount if they want to avoid an 0-2 start. The Browns defense, led by Myles Garrett, will be salivating at the chance to pressure Mayfield into mistakes.
Adding to the drama, Mayfield recently acknowledged there's history with his former team, but he's not letting it distract him. The focus is on execution and leading his squad to a much-needed victory.
As the 1 PM ET kickoff approaches, expect Mayfield to play with intensity. But will he keep his emotions in check? The Bucs hope so. A win would not only even their record but also serve as a sweet redemption for a quarterback who's been counted out before.
One thing's for sure: Mayfield's journey continues to be one of the NFL's most compelling storylines.
