4. Baker positioned for success
Year three is a big season for Baker Mayfield, as the NFL world waits to find out if the former No. 1 pick is capable of leading a franchise to the Super Bowl, or just a guy capable of winning seven or eight games a year, feasting on lesser opponents.
With Stefanski now calling shots, it’s expected Mayfield will be an improved player, and by all accounts, he’s been open to coaching.
The effects of COVID-19 on team’s ability to practice this offseason will surely impact Mayfield and the offense, as the unit looked clunky in camp.
However, it doesn’t change the fact that Mayfield’s got Chub and Hunt in addition to his arsenal of tight ends in Austin Hooper, Harrison Bryant and David Njoku. Plus, Jarvis Landry and Odell Beckham will keep the secondary entertained.
And while the offensive practices weren’t great this summer, I still give. Mayfield should still have some credibility as a gamer. When the helmets go on and the games count, I think he’s capable of playing better than he did in camp.
Factoring in that Mayfield doesn’t need to throw the ball around like Patrick.Mahomes, Mayfield should have a nice day if he plays within the offense, meaning throwing the ball 20-25 times and handing the ball to Chubb and Hunt.