Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield has launched a fiery public rebuke against his former head coach, Kevin Stefanski, accusing the Cleveland Browns of treating him like "garbage" during his departure. The explosive comments come as the two are now set to become divisional rivals in the NFC South, following Stefanski's recent hiring by the Atlanta Falcons.
Mayfield's Blistering Social Media Retort
The controversy ignited after an Atlanta Journal-Constitution reporter shared remarks attributed to Stefanski, suggesting that both Mayfield and fellow quarterback Deshaun Watson had "failed" during their tenures with the Browns. Mayfield did not hold back in his response, taking to social media to express his deep-seated frustrations.
"Failed is quite the reach pal. Still waiting on a text/call from him after I got shipped off like a piece of garbage," Mayfield posted on Tuesday. "Can't wait to see you twice a year, Coach." This pointed message underscores the lingering resentment from what Mayfield perceives as a disrespectful exit from Cleveland.
A Tumultuous Journey from Cleveland to Tampa Bay
Baker Mayfield's NFL career has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. Drafted first overall by the Cleveland Browns in 2018 after winning the Heisman Trophy at Oklahoma, he initially showed promise by throwing for 3,725 yards and a then-NFL rookie record of 27 touchdown passes in his debut season.
Under Stefanski's leadership in 2020, Mayfield guided the Browns to their first playoff appearance in 17 years and secured their first postseason victory in 26 seasons, marking a significant achievement. However, his time in Cleveland was also marred by inconsistency, notably in 2019 when he threw 22 touchdown passes against 21 interceptions, and he frequently clashed with critics over his performance.
After being traded to the Carolina Panthers in 2022 and a brief stint with the Los Angeles Rams, Mayfield's career seemed at a crossroads. Yet, he has successfully revitalised his prospects with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, earning Pro Bowl selections twice and leading the team to playoff berths in both 2023 and 2024. Despite a late-season collapse that prevented postseason participation this year, his resurgence has been notable.
Stefanski's Move to Atlanta Sets Stage for Heated Rivalry
Kevin Stefanski, a two-time Associated Press Coach of the Year, spent six seasons with the Cleveland Browns before being dismissed after this season. His swift appointment by the Atlanta Falcons less than two weeks later now positions him directly against Mayfield in the NFC South, ensuring two highly anticipated matchups each season.
This development adds a personal layer to the professional rivalry, as Mayfield's candid remarks highlight unresolved tensions from their time together in Cleveland. The upcoming games between the Buccaneers and Falcons are poised to be charged with emotional intensity, drawing significant attention from NFL fans and analysts alike.
As both men prepare to face off on the field, Mayfield's outspoken criticism not only sheds light on his past grievances but also sets the stage for a compelling narrative in the 2024 NFL season, where old wounds may fuel competitive fire.
