The Cleveland Browns started their first voluntary offseason program of the offseason on Tuesday. While their new starting quarterback did show up, their previous one did not, as Baker Mayfield was nowhere to be seen at the team’s facility in Berea, Ohio.
The Browns welcomed Deshaun Watson to his first official workout with the franchise after a trade that brought him over from the Houston Texans. The weather appears to be a bit different from what he might be used to.
QB☝️ in the building pic.twitter.com/LSdmL3nJGE
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) April 19, 2022
However, there was no photo of Mayfield, who is about as estranged as someone can be from their NFL franchise. The team and their former starter have had a strained relationship for a while now but it all came boiling over when the team traded for Watson after Mayfield demanded a trade of his own. He’s since said he feels disrespected by the franchise, who is waiting for the right offer for him after the QB market dried up.
All of which is to say that it’s no surprise Mayfield isn’t there. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler officially reported that he is not expected to be involved in any team offseason program while he rehabs his surgically repaired left shoulder.
As #Browns players arrive for the voluntary offseason program, a source says Baker Mayfield had not been spotted at the Berea facility as of this morning. A candidate to stay away given trade scenario.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) April 19, 2022
This drawn-out soap opera may or may not be solved during the NFL Draft. But in the meantime, Mayfield’s absence is certainly drawing a lot of feelings and reactions from the NFL world on social media.
Deshaun Watson has reported to Berea. As expected…Baker Mayfield has not.
Baker is still rehabbing his shoulder. Attending voluntary workouts at this point would be a massive distraction.
Not worth it. #Browns@fox8news
— John Sabol (@John_Sabol) April 19, 2022
He didn't show up, but I selfishly wished Baker Mayfield would show up to the Browns' offseason workouts just to see the takes on this website
— lindsey ok (@lindseyyok) April 19, 2022
Now just don’t show up for Mandatory camp and void those guarantees https://t.co/DAISa5CxbV
— Cory (@fakecorykinnan) April 19, 2022
Would've been quite the story HAD he shown up… https://t.co/D004rQxGxE
— Nick Camino (@NickCaminoWKYC) April 19, 2022
Any particular reason why? Did something happen? https://t.co/0VNWXmw3L1
— Bleacher Nation Bears (@BN_Bears) April 19, 2022
[ESPN]
