Baker Mayfield's NFL Team History

Hey football fanatics! Ever wondered about the journey of Baker Mayfield, the charismatic quarterback who's bounced around a few NFL teams? You've come to the right place, guys! We're diving deep into Baker Mayfield's NFL team history, exploring where this talented gunslinger has played throughout his exciting career. From his college glory days to his professional gridiron battles, Baker has certainly made his mark, and understanding his team stops is key to appreciating his full story. So, buckle up as we break down each chapter of his NFL adventure.

The Cleveland Browns: A New Beginning

So, let's kick things off with where Baker Mayfield's NFL story really began: the Cleveland Browns. Drafted first overall in the 2018 NFL Draft, the hype around Baker was through the roof! The Browns, a team that had struggled for years to find a consistent franchise quarterback, saw something special in the former Heisman Trophy winner from Oklahoma. His rookie season was a rollercoaster, showing flashes of brilliance that had fans believing a turnaround was finally in sight. He broke several rookie records for the Browns, showcasing his arm talent, mobility, and competitive fire. The initial promise was palpable; he could sling it, he could extend plays with his legs, and he played with a chip on his shoulder that resonated with the passionate Browns fanbase. In his second season, under head coach Freddie Kitchens, things got a bit more turbulent, but Mayfield still managed to put up solid numbers, demonstrating his potential to lead the offense. The team struggled overall, but his individual performances often hinted at a brighter future. Then came the 2020 season, arguably his best in Cleveland. Under Kevin Stefanski, Baker led the Browns to an 11-5 record and their first playoff appearance in nearly two decades. He threw for over 3,500 yards and 26 touchdowns, with a career-low 8 interceptions. That playoff win against the Pittsburgh Steelers was an iconic moment, a testament to his leadership and clutch play. He played through injuries and proved he could handle the pressure of a high-stakes game. However, the following season, 2021, saw a dip in performance. Injuries, including a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder, hampered his effectiveness. The team's offensive line struggled, and the offense as a whole didn't quite click the way it had the year before. Despite playing through pain, his stats weren't as impressive, leading to increased scrutiny and questions about his future with the team. The uncertainty surrounding his contract and the team's overall direction created a cloud over his final year in Cleveland. It was a tenure filled with incredible highs, like that playoff win, and frustrating lows, marked by inconsistency and injuries. The Browns faithful will always remember his grit and determination, but ultimately, his time in Cleveland came to an end, paving the way for his next chapter.

The Carolina Panthers: A Brief Stint

Following his departure from Cleveland, Baker Mayfield found himself on the move to the Carolina Panthers. This was a significant change of scenery, and many saw it as a fresh start for the quarterback. He was traded to the Panthers before the 2022 season, with the expectation that he would come in and be the starting quarterback, finally bringing some stability to the position for the Carolina franchise. He actually won the starting job out of training camp, beating out Sam Darnold and P.J. Walker. His debut with the Panthers was memorable, as he led them to a comeback victory against the Cleveland Browns themselves in Week 1! It felt like a storybook beginning, exorcising some demons from his previous team and showing what he could do. However, the season for the Panthers, and for Baker individually, proved to be quite challenging. The team struggled offensively, plagued by injuries on the offensive line and a lack of consistent playmakers. Baker dealt with a high-ankle sprain early in the season that clearly affected his mobility and overall performance. His stats reflected the team's struggles; he wasn't putting up the kind of numbers that made him a first-overall pick. The offense lacked explosiveness, and at times, Mayfield seemed to be pressing, trying to make plays that weren't there. There were moments where his competitive spirit shone through, but the overall product on the field was disappointing for both the player and the fanbase. By mid-season, it became apparent that this wasn't the long-term solution the Panthers had hoped for. He was eventually benched in favor of Sam Darnold, marking a difficult turn of events in what was supposed to be a revitalizing season. His time in Carolina was short-lived, a brief and somewhat disappointing chapter in his career. Despite the struggles, it was a valuable experience, and he continued to show resilience in trying to make the best of a tough situation. It was a clear reminder of how much a quarterback's success is tied to the talent and stability around them.

The Los Angeles Rams: A Familiar Face in a New City

After his time with the Panthers came to a close, Baker Mayfield was claimed off waivers by the Los Angeles Rams late in the 2022 season. This move was quite the plot twist! With Matthew Stafford sidelined due to injury, the Rams were in desperate need of a quarterback to finish out their season. The team, led by coach Sean McVay, decided to take a chance on Baker, and it turned out to be a surprisingly impactful decision, at least in the short term. He arrived in Los Angeles with very little time to learn the playbook and adjust to a new team, but he quickly impressed everyone with his ability to pick things up on the fly. In his very first game with the Rams, against the heavily favored Las Vegas Raiders, Baker Mayfield delivered an absolutely incredible performance. He came into the game after just a couple of days of practice and led the Rams on a game-winning touchdown drive in the final minutes. It was a dramatic and unforgettable moment, showcasing his quick learning ability and his signature grit. This performance immediately endeared him to the Rams fans and proved that even in a difficult situation, he could still make plays. He started the remaining games for the Rams, providing a spark that was desperately needed. While the Rams' overall record didn't improve significantly, Baker's play gave the team a fighting chance and showed his value as a capable backup or bridge quarterback. He demonstrated that he could still sling the ball effectively and lead an offense, even with limited preparation. It was a testament to his professionalism and his innate talent. This brief but impactful stint in Los Angeles allowed him to showcase his resilience and proved that he was still a viable NFL quarterback, capable of stepping up when called upon. It was a positive note to end his 2022 season on, setting the stage for his next endeavor.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Re-Emergence and Stability

And that brings us to Baker Mayfield's current chapter: the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After his strong showing with the Rams, Baker signed a one-year deal with the Buccaneers for the 2023 season. Many viewed this as an opportunity for him to rebound and re-establish himself as a starting quarterback in the league. And boy, did he deliver! Under head coach Todd Bowles and offensive coordinator Dave Canales, Baker had a career resurgence. He played with a newfound confidence and seemingly a chip on his shoulder, proving all his doubters wrong. He led the Buccaneers to an unexpected division title in the NFC South, showcasing incredible leadership and clutch playmaking throughout the season. His statistics were outstanding: over 4,000 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and a career-low 10 interceptions. He earned his first Pro Bowl selection, a well-deserved recognition of his dominant performance. Baker displayed remarkable poise in the pocket, excellent decision-making, and the ability to make all the necessary throws. He formed a strong connection with his receivers and managed the offense effectively. The Buccaneers' offense became a surprisingly potent unit, and a huge part of that success was Baker's command of the game. He showed toughness, playing through some bumps and bruises, and never shied away from making the tough throws. The playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles was a prime example of his leadership, where he outplayed a highly touted opponent. This season with the Buccaneers has been a massive success, silencing many critics and proving that Baker Mayfield is still a force to be reckoned with in the NFL. It's a testament to his resilience, his hard work, and his unwavering belief in himself. This chapter has been incredibly rewarding for Baker and has solidified his place as a starting quarterback in this league.