NFL

NFL News: Baker Mayfield's reaction when asked about Deshaun Watson suspension

With Deshaun Watsonreceiving a six-game suspension, the Cleveland Browns will probably have to lay on Jacoby Brissett to start the 2022 NFL season. Unsurprisingly, Baker Mayfield was askedabout the Panthers' first opponent this year.

Updated on
August 02, 2022 05:18PM EDT

After months of speculation, Deshaun Watsonhas beensuspended for the first six games of the 2022 NFL season. That means that Jacoby Brissett will probably be under center when the Browns take on the Panthers in Week 1.

Curiously, Cleveland could face a familar face that weekend if Baker Mayfield ends up winning the job in Carolina. They have a lot of history together, but it didn’t end well. Mayfield’s days with the Browns looked numbered for months, yet he wasn’t traded until July.

With Watson unavailable for the beginning of the season, it’s fair to wonder whether the team didn’t make a mistake by burning all its bridges with Mayfield. Unsurprisingly, he was asked aboutthe Browns’ QBsituation shortly after the news broke out— but he preferred to stay away from it.

Baker Mayfieldnot paying attention to Browns’ QB situation

“Honestly, it’s none of my business,” Mayfield toldJosina Andersonof CBS Sports. “I don’t play against the other quarterback. I know that’s the most cliche thing to say, but that’s just the truth when it comes down to it. I’m game-planning against that defense. … So, I’ve got to keep getting better.

“I’m not focused on Week 1 right now. … We’ll handle that when it comes, but for now, it’s about getting the Panthers better and our offense continuing to get better as well.”

Though it would be fair to think that the Panthers wouldn’t have traded for him if they didn’t want him as starter, it looks like Mayfield will have to win the job in the next few weeks. Sam Darnold failed to impress last year, butitseemsthat he still has a chance.

Martín O’donnell

Martin O'Donnell is a bilingual sports writer fluent in English and Spanish, currently serving as the Editor of Bolavip. He began his journey with the website in February 2021, making a name for himself through comprehensive coverage of soccer, NFL, and NBA, with a specialty in real-time reporting of major events such as the World Cup, UEFA Champions League finals, and the Super Bowl. In June 2024, Martin took on the role of Subeditor, where he excelled in overseeing the publication of stories, assisting staff writers, and ensuring content quality. His prior experience includes managing social media for CONMEBOL Libertadores and Sudamericana in English and Spanish, as well as reporting on Brazilian football for Sambafoot. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and ability to capture breaking news, Martin has consistently been a valuable asset to the Bolavip team, especially during crucial sports seasons involving trades, playoffs, and finals. Now, as the Editor, Martin brings his extensive experience and keen editorial sense to lead Bolavip’s team, driving the website's growth and ensuring it remains a top source for sports news and analysis.