KC Chiefs: Five players who could challenge Patrick Mahomes for MVP
By Chris Clark
Baker Mayfield
When the Cleveland Browns selected Baker Mayfield number one overall in the 2018 draft, it was a bit of a surprise. With four quarterbacks selected in the first ten picks, it seemed to be a toss-up on which quarterback the Browns would go for. Out of those four quarterbacks chosen, Mayfield seems to have left the biggest mark.
The former Heisman Trophy winner tallied 27 touchdowns, which is a rookie record. Even more impressive was the fact that it took him only 14 games to break the record. Had he played a full season, he would have likely eclipsed the 4,000-yard mark as well.
Part of Mayfield’s success came when the Browns fired head coach Hue Jackson and offensive coordinator Todd Haley, which allowed for Mayfield and offensive assistant, Freddie Kitchens, to really get the offense going. The Browns even picked up enough steam that they were making a small push for the playoffs. Not bad at all for a rookie quarterback who had to deal with an in-season coaching change.
Mayfield appears to be in an even better position in year two. With Kitchens now the head coach, it has afforded him and Mayfield a full offseason to get ready for 2019. Also, the offseason addition of Odell Beckham Jr. gives the sophomore quarterback a superstar receiver to throw to.
It shouldn’t be overlooked that Mayfield is moving into his second year with Jarvis Landry, another very capable receiver, and Nick Chubb, one of the best young running backs in the league. Add in the young and upcoming Browns defense and many are looking at Cleveland as a postseason noisemaker.
If Baker Mayfield makes the most of the pieces around him, he’ll challenge Mahomes for the MVP and create a good AFC quarterback rivalry for years to come.