Cleveland Browns' Mistreatment of Baker Mayfield Now Haunts Shedeur Sanders | NFL Wires
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The Cleveland Browns' history with Baker Mayfield is casting a shadow on rookie Shedeur Sanders' future. Discover how past mistakes are affecting the Browns' current quarterback situation.
A Legacy of Disrespect: From Mayfield to Sanders
The Cleveland Browns are no strangers to quarterback controversy. But in 2025, that past is catching up with them—fast. With rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders struggling to find his footing, many fans and analysts are looking backward, pointing fingers at how the Browns handled their former franchise QB, Baker Mayfield.
Mayfield was once the face of the franchise. He played through injury, gave the team their first playoff win in decades, and brought hope to a suffering fan base. Yet despite his contributions, the Browns seemed eager to move on. What followed was a quick, emotionless exit that many still call disrespectful.
The Shadow Over Shedeur Sanders
Enter Shedeur Sanders, a dynamic young quarterback with plenty of promise. Drafted amid much media buzz and fan anticipation, Sanders was seen as the next big hope. But just months into his rookie campaign, the same distrust, impatience, and locker-room tension that surrounded Mayfield seems to be resurfacing.
Reports from Browns camp indicate that Sanders is under immense pressure—not just to perform, but to clean up the franchise's quarterback reputation. Analysts are quick to jump on his mistakes, fans are split in loyalty, and management remains silent. The rookie QB is feeling the heat, and it’s eerily reminiscent of Mayfield’s final days in Cleveland.
What Went Wrong With Baker?
To understand Shedeur's current dilemma, we must revisit the mishandling of Baker Mayfield. The Browns failed to build around him adequately, changed coaching staffs repeatedly, and ultimately chased flash over foundation by pursuing controversial quarterback moves.
The lack of loyalty shown to Mayfield sent a message to future QBs: You’re only as good as your last snap. For Sanders, that message rings loud and clear.
Culture Crisis in Cleveland?
What the Browns are dealing with may not be a quarterback issue—it might be a culture issue. Quarterbacks need support, stability, and structure. Cleveland has failed to deliver on all three. Sanders' talent is undeniable, but without the right environment, even stars can fizzle.
NFL Wires spoke with a former NFL quarterback who noted, "If you can't commit to the guy who wins you playoff games, how can you expect a rookie to feel safe and grow?"
The Fallout Could Be Long-Term
If the Browns continue this cycle, they risk damaging another young career and their credibility across the league. Sanders needs mentorship, protection, and time—just like Mayfield once did.
It’s not too late for Cleveland to turn things around, but that starts with accountability. And maybe, just maybe, an apology to Baker Mayfield wouldn’t hurt either.
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