Cleveland Browns: 3 Early breakout candidates for 2019 season
1. Baker Mayfield
It may have taken longer than many fans would’ve liked for Baker Mayfield to get his opportunity during his rookie season, but once he did, he was incredibly impressive. In his 14 games played (13 starts), the Oklahoma product and 2017 Heisman Trophy winner completed 63.8 percent of his passes for 3,725 yards, 27 touchdowns and just 14 interceptions.
Though Mayfield certainly had his ups and downs throughout his first year in the league, the tools and traits that led to him being the top pick in the 2018 NFL Draft were evident. Thus, it shouldn’t be all that surprising that he could have a big second year in the league for the Cleveland Browns as he has close to a full year of experience under his belt.
While that’s certainly true, there is also reason to believe that Mayfield could be in line for a monster year even better than just natural progression would dictate. That, of course, starts with the improvement of the weapons around him. Having young players improve while adding Odell Beckham Jr. to the mix is a massive boost to the second-year signal-caller’s stock.
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On top of that, though, the offensive minds now in control in Cleveland should set Mayfield up for even more success. We caught a glimpse of what new head coach Freddie Kitchens is capable of last season and now he has Todd Monken in as his offensive coordinator, another mind that has proven its merit at this level on offense.
When you take the whole equation into account, Baker Mayfield could establish himself as a superstar in the 2019 NFL season.