Browns Defeat Buccaneers as Mayfield Faces Scrutiny

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, led by Baker Mayfield, experienced another setback in Week 2, losing 23-19 to the Cleveland Browns. The game witnessed a remarkable Browns comeback, with Mayfield struggling to lead his team to a decisive touchdown late in the fourth quarter, contributing to Tampa Bay’s second consecutive loss.

This loss sparked criticism over Mayfield’s value to the team. Former NFL running back Damien Harris, now analyzing for CBS Sports, commented, “Baker Mayfield ain’t worth that money. He’s not worth that money.” He observed that Mayfield’s career has been inconsistent, questioning the decision to guarantee such a high salary.

Are you gonna get the hot hand or the cold Baker Mayfield. That’s what we’re seeing the past two games.

Harris noted issues beyond Mayfield, such as the team’s performance, including lackluster contributions from Emeka Egbuka and the run game. Despite these factors, he emphasized Mayfield’s underperformance.

Mayfield completed 61.8% of his passes for 182 yards, threw one touchdown, and had an interception that the Browns converted to a field goal. This costly mistake influenced the game’s outcome. Harris highlighted Mayfield’s previous Week 1 performance against the Bengals, where turnovers gave points to the opposition and contributed to the loss.

Mayfield’s three-year, $165 million contract with the Buccaneers, reported in September by ESPN, comes under scrutiny amidst the team’s 0-2 start. While the beginning of the season seems disappointing, Mayfield still has time to redeem himself and potentially guide the Buccaneers to victory.

The Buccaneers prepare to host the Minnesota Vikings, who are currently 2-0, on Sunday, Sept. 27, at 4:25 p.m. ET, as they seek their first win of the season.