Haslams, Berry but not Stefanski release statements on Mayfield trade
The divorce between the Cleveland Browns and Baker Mayfield is now official with the trade to the Carolina Panthers. Mayfield’s tenure with the Browns is an interesting one but that chapter of his professional career is now closed.
Mayfield helped lead the team to respectability in 2020 with the playoff appearance and playoff victory. The 2021 season was less than positive for all sides due to the quarterback’s shoulder injury and clashes within the locker room.
Cleveland gets back just a conditional fifth-round pick in the 2024 NFL draft while saving over $8 million in salary cap space. Mayfield gave up over $3 million in guaranteed salary to get the trade to happen.
Owners Dee Jimmy Haslam and GM Andrew Berry released statements on their former quarterback.
Haslam
“From the moment he was drafted, he gave his all for this organization and this city. With his fierce competitive spirit, he excited the fanbase and accomplished things that no player at his position had done in Cleveland for a very long time. He also made a difference in the community, whether it was hosting events at the Boys and Girls Club, honoring our troops, supporting the Special Olympics as well as countless other charitable endeavors. We are grateful for everything he did for this organization and wish him and Emily well in the future.”
Berry
“Baker’s competitiveness, toughness and ability to persevere were all characteristics that endeared him to our city as well as his teammates. He will always have a unique place in Browns history for what he accomplished and we wish him well as he continues his career.”
Interestingly, head coach Kevin Stefanski did not have a statement included in the team’s release. It is possible that Stefanski was not available but the two seemed to have a falling out last year.
The Mayfield tenure is over but not going to be forgotten for awhile including Cleveland rooting for him to play to help the draft pick move up a round. The two teams also face off in Week 1 which means Stefanski will be asked about Mayfield multiple times between now and then.
