The unknowns surrounding the Cleveland Browns quarterback’s room are perhaps the NFL’s biggest on-field intrigue at this point in the offseason. Deshaun Watson’s legal troubles have received some updates, but he still faces four civil charges and possible NFL discipline.
The team’s starting quarterback for more than three seasons, Baker Mayfield, also has an unknown future. Despite the possibility of a lengthy suspension for Watson, it seems unlikely that the Browns or Mayfield will want to stay together in 2022.
The Carolina Panthers appeared to have the most interest in acquiring the former Heisman Trophy winner despite failing a deal in the NFL Draft.
The other team that made sense was the Seattle Seahawks. The current competition between Drew Lock and Geno Smith is disappointing. According to Josina Anderson, the Seahawks are indeed very interested in Mayfield:
At one point, Seattle head coach Pete Carroll indicated that the team was unlikely to add another veteran quarterback, but that speaking publicly doesn’t mean much.
A deal for Mayfield would improve the Seahawks’ passing game and, perhaps, give DK Metcalf more reason to sign a long-term deal. It’s interesting that Anderson notes that they might be interested in doing an expansion if they add Mayfield as well.
For now, much like the Panthers rumours, nothing matters until a deal is done. As of now, Mayfield and the Browns are still tied.
