Baker Mayfield Calls Out Kevin Stefanski in NFC South Welcome

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield has not forgotten the way his time with the Cleveland Browns ended. Recently, he delivered a pointed message to Kevin Stefanski, the newly appointed head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, highlighting his complicated past with the Browns organization.

Mayfield’s comments came in response to a tweet from an Atlanta journalist discussing Stefanski’s tenure in Cleveland. The tweet noted the number of quarterbacks Stefanski coached over the years, indicating a pattern of instability at the position.

In contrast, Mayfield expressed his dissatisfaction, stating that he felt discarded by the Browns after a tumultuous exit. Despite being the first overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft and playing a key role in leading the team to its first playoff appearance since 2002 in the 2020 season, Mayfield felt he was treated like “garbage” during his departure.

As Stefanski prepares to face Mayfield and the Buccaneers twice a season in the NFC South, the quarterback’s remarks have set a competitive tone. He said, “Failed is quite the reach pal,” referencing the claims that both he and current Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson did not succeed in Cleveland. Mayfield added, “Still waiting on a text/call from [Stefanski] after I got shipped off like a piece of garbage. Can’t wait to see you twice a year, Coach.”

Although the rivalry has sparked before Stefanski has even held a practice with the Falcons, both coaches are preparing for a challenging season ahead.

Stefanski’s Departure from Cleveland

The Browns parted ways with Stefanski after a disappointing season, culminating in a 5-12 record during his sixth year with the franchise. Following a dismal 3-14 season in 2024, the Browns decided it was time to seek new leadership, prompting their current search for a new head coach to guide the team forward.

Stefanski quickly became a sought-after candidate in the coaching carousel, finishing as the second coach to be hired after John Harbaugh took the New York Giants position. Upon his signing with the Falcons, the team announced a five-year contract that indicates their long-term commitment to building a competitive roster.

Mayfield’s Journey After Cleveland

Baker Mayfield’s exit from Cleveland was a challenging chapter in his career, especially after the promise shown during the 2020 season. His partnership with Stefanski appeared to set the foundation for a successful era, leading to an 11-5 record, a playoff berth, and a historic wild-card victory.

However, following a 6-8 finish in his fourth season, Mayfield found himself transitioning to the Carolina Panthers as part of the fallout from the Browns’ decision to trade for Deshaun Watson. This move not only ended Mayfield’s time in Cleveland but also thrust him into another quarterback competition against Sam Darnold.

A New Chapter in Tampa Bay

Mayfield’s opportunity with the Panthers did not last long. Although he initially won the starting position, a disheartening start led to his release. The Los Angeles Rams quickly claimed him off waivers, and head coach Sean McVay made a quick decision to insert him into games. Incredibly, Mayfield led the Rams to a memorable comeback win merely days after joining the team.

Despite this being his only victory with Los Angeles, the Buccaneers offered him a fresh start following Tom Brady’s retirement. In his inaugural season in Tampa Bay, Mayfield demonstrated his capabilities by leading the team to the playoffs, including a victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in the wild-card round.

The Buccaneers recognized his potential, securing him with a three-year, $100 million contract to solidify his role as their starting quarterback for the foreseeable future.

Looking Ahead

While Mayfield’s career trajectory has taken unexpected turns, he remains optimistic and competitive. Although he has successfully landed on his feet in Tampa Bay, it is clear that he still harbors feelings about how his departure from Cleveland unfolded. A simple text or call from his former coach would have made a difference, he suggested.

Stefanski’s tenure with the Browns concluded with a record of 45-56 over 101 games, leaving behind both a challenging legacy and a need for fresh strategies in Atlanta. New challenges await him as he works with talents like quarterback Michael Penix and running back Bijan Robinson to build a successful team.

The upcoming matchups between Mayfield and Stefanski promise to be charged with emotion, as both will seek to prove their worth moving forward. With themes of redemption and rivalry intertwining, the tension in the NFC South is already mounting.