Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield has launched a scathing public attack on his former head coach, Kevin Stefanski, accusing the Cleveland Browns of treating him like "garbage" upon his departure. The explosive comments come as the two are now set to face each other twice annually in the NFC South division, following Stefanski's recent hiring by the Atlanta Falcons.
A Heated Exchange Sparks New Rivalry
Mayfield's frustration boiled over after an Atlanta Journal-Constitution reporter posted that Stefanski had described both Mayfield and fellow quarterback Deshaun Watson as having "failed" during their tenures with the Browns. The 2018 first overall draft pick did not hold back in his response, taking to social media to express his disdain.
"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 remark sets the stage for a highly anticipated and personal rivalry when the Buccaneers and Falcons clash next season.
Mayfield's Rollercoaster Career in Cleveland
Selected by the Browns after winning the Heisman Trophy at Oklahoma, Mayfield's time in Cleveland was marked by both significant highs and notable struggles. In his rookie season, he threw for 3,725 yards and set a then-NFL rookie record with 27 touchdown passes, showcasing his potential as a franchise quarterback.
Under Stefanski's leadership in 2020, Mayfield achieved a career highlight by guiding the Browns to their first playoff appearance in 17 years and securing their first postseason victory in 26 seasons. However, his consistency wavered, exemplified by a 2019 campaign where he threw 22 touchdowns against 21 interceptions, and he often faced criticism for his outspoken nature.
Resurgence in Tampa Bay
After being traded to the Carolina Panthers in 2022 and a brief stint with the Los Angeles Rams, Mayfield's career appeared to be at a crossroads. Yet, he has experienced a remarkable revival with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Earning Pro Bowl honours twice, he has led the team to playoff berths in both the 2023 and 2024 seasons, though a late-season collapse prevented a postseason run this year.
Stefanski's Move to Atlanta
Kevin Stefanski, a two-time Associated Press Coach of the Year, was dismissed by the Browns after six seasons at the helm. His tenure included guiding the team to that notable playoff victory with Mayfield. The Atlanta Falcons moved swiftly, hiring him less than two weeks after his departure from Cleveland, positioning him directly against his former quarterback in the NFC South.
This development not only intensifies the divisional competition but also adds a deeply personal layer to the upcoming NFL season, as Mayfield seeks to prove his worth against the coach he feels wronged him.
