Browns weigh on Baker Mayfield’s future after loss

Baker Mayfield did not hold back in his post-game press conference after netting four career-high interceptions against the Cleveland Browns, crushing the 24-22 loss to the Green Bay Packers.

Mayfield threw three picks in the first half and the eventual interception sealing the game in the fourth quarter on a controversial non-appeal on a fairly blatant defensive hold. Despite this, Mayfield took responsibility for the loss.

“I hurt this team,” Mayfield told reporters on Saturday, Dec. 25 after the loss. “It’s frustrating. I thought our defense was playing well, our skillful players were playing well, same with the offensive line. The backs were running their tails. That’s why it’s frustrating for me. I hurt this team. There is no excuse.

While Mayfield was right in his assessment, the Browns made sure there wouldn’t be any changes coming to quarterback anytime soon.

“He’s our starting quarterback,” Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said: “Yes.”

Stefanski continued: “I know he had four interceptions, but we win as a team and we lose as a team.”

That being said, Stefanski was frustrated with the turnovers, seeing his Browns team come so close to knocking down the NFC’s top team.

“It’s frustrating,” said Kevin Stefanski. “They’re the best team in the NFC and Aaron Rodgers plays at MVP level. Obviously when you turn it over… that’s not what we’re trying to do.

Browns star Myles Garrett – who suffered a groin injury – also spoke on Mayfield’s Day.

“He made some really good plays,” Garrett said. “He made some not-so-good plays. So have us all.

Mayfield on interceptions: “Some of them were bad shots”

Mayfield’s turnovers were reversed by 21 points in the first half, giving the Packers a 21-12 lead after two quarters.

“Some of them were bad shots,” Mayfield said. “Did not follow through with the one from the red zone, which was extremely expensive, a turnover from the red zone. I just sailed high, ”Mayfield said. “The other one, I just have to put it outside. (Douglas) played well on it. (I) left it inside.

Mayfield finished the game 21 of 36 for 222 yards, two touchdowns, four interceptions and was sacked five times. As the no-appeal on Mayfield’s last pass of the game aroused strong criticism, the Browns QB agreed they shouldn’t have to leave it in the hands of the umpires.

“A little touch, but you can’t count on that name,” he said.

Browns playoff hopes still unfulfilled

Getty ImagesCleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield.

The Browns now face an uphill battle to advance to the playoffs, but have a silver lining with backing from AFC North. They will face the Steelers and Browns over the next two weeks, which will give them a chance to earn a spot in the AFC North.

“We have to take care of our business,” Mayfield said. “We have to handle Pittsburgh next week. Help won’t matter if we don’t mind our own business.

If the Browns are to be hopeful, Mayfield will need to play better. He’s healthier than he’s been for most of the season and now is really a make or die time for the former No. 1 overall pick.