Photo: (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND - Baker Mayfield, the former number one pick in the 2018 draft has been traded to the Carolina Panthers for a conditional fifth-round pick in 2024. The Browns are also picking up $10.5 million of his 2022 contract. The Panthers will pay Mayfield about $5 million and the former Heisman Trophy Award winner has agreed to cut his salary by $3.5 million.
Mayfield started 59 of his 60 games and completed 1,185 of 1,924 passes (61.6%) for 14,125 yards with 92 touchdowns and 56 interceptions. He ranks third in team history in passing yards and fourth in touchdown passes. Mayfield is the only player in Browns history to throw for 3,000 yards in four consecutive seasons.
The Browns were in a state of limbo with Mayfield since the signing on DeShaun Watson.
Dee and Jimmy Haslam issued this statment:
“We want to thank Baker for all his contributions to the Cleveland Browns. 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.”
Andrew Berry issued this statement:
“Baker Mayfield infused our organization with tenacity and grit during his time as our starting quarterback. 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.”
Unless Mayfield signs a new deal before the end of the season with the Panthers, he will be a free agent entering the 2023 season.
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