The Indianapolis Colts may soon have their new quarterback if they can negotiate a trade with the Cleveland Browns for Baker Mayfield.
The Cleveland Browns and their fans have been on a roller coaster the last few days. First, it was reported that the team was in the mix to land Deshaun Watson, then they were reportedly out of the running.
While that was happening, Cleveland’s quarterback Baker Mayfield released a statement thanking the people of Cleveland before ultimately requesting a trade.
The Browns said they wouldn’t grant Mayfield his wishes but they somehow got back into the Watson sweepstakes and were able to land the quarterback in a huge trade and offered Watson a massive contract extension.
Now, Cleveland will work to find Mayfield a new team and reports suggest that shouldn’t take long considering the Indianapolis Colts are already having discussions with the Browns.
#Colts and #Browns having discussions about a Baker Mayfield trade, per league sources. Right now, just discussions, but something to keep an eye out for.
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 18, 2022
Colts could trade for Baker Mayfield
Indy has been in the market for a quarterback since it was reported that the team would move on from Carson Wentz. Early in March, Indianapolis traded Wentz to the Washington Commanders without a plan for the next steps.
The Colts haven’t really been able to be active in pursuit of many big names, so they’ve mostly spent the first week of free agency just watching things unfold.
Now, this latest move may open up the door for Indianapolis to make a major move that will give the team its next starting quarterback.
Indy has an interest in Mayfield and according to recent reports, Baker has informed the Browns that his No. 1 preferred destination is the Colts.
Baker Mayfield has informed the Browns that he'd prefer to be traded to the Colts, per sources. Earlier this week, prior to Mayfield's trade request, the Browns said they'd work with him on a trade. We'll see if they'll accommodate such a move to the AFC, though. @TheAthletic
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) March 18, 2022
Mayfield is coming off a down year where he battled an injury to his non-throwing shoulder all season. There are plenty of question marks surrounding the quarterback that will soon turn 27, but he may be the best option for Indianapolis.
It won’t necessarily be an easy acquisition for the Colts though. Mayfield has a year remaining on his rookie contract and he really doesn’t have much say in where he goes. It’s also unclear what the Browns are looking to get in return.
With reports that the Seattle Seahawks are also interested in Mayfield, Seattle could end up offering more or the Browns could choose the Seahawks in order to get Baker out of the conference.
Everyone will have to wait and see how things unfold but the Colts are in the mix to acquire Baker Mayfield.
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