Baker Mayfield explains avoiding postgame presser after Browns’ win, criticizes Cleveland fans

Baker Mayfield continues to play through shoulder pain that clearly has been affecting his performance on the field. Mayfield had one of his worst games of the season in Sunday’s 13-10 win over the Detroit Lions, completing 15 of 29 passes for 176 yards with a touchdown and two interceptions — notching a season-low 53.2 passer rating. 

Mayfield didn’t speak to reporters after the game, which led to controversy in Cleveland in the hours ahead. In addition to Mayfield ignoring his postgame obligations, his wife was involved in the news revolving around an Instagram post that said the team should “get tougher” in responding to her husband’s struggles. The post was since deleted — and Mayfield had to face the music on why he skipped his postgame obligations Monday. 

“I was frustrated, among other things,” Mayfield said. “I’ve never dodged any questions or hid away from that, so it’s not about that. Just frustrated, removed emotions and all that from it, and just decided it was best to wait.

“Not one part of that is not being accountable. I’d be the first to tell you I played like s—. So it’s not about accountable, and I don’t owe you guys any of that. I owe that to my teammates and I talk to them, and that’s what matters.”

Mayfield has completed 64% of his passes for 2,166 yards with 10 touchdowns and six interceptions through 10 games. Through the same stretch last year (first 10 games he played), Mayfield completed 60.7% of his passes for 1,850 yards with 15 touchdowns to seven interceptions (89.7 rating). 

The numbers are better, but the Browns were 7-3 after 10 games. In 10 of Mayfield’s starts this year, the Browns are 5-5 — and he’s playing through shoulder and knee injuries. Perhaps that’s why the Browns quarterback isn’t bothered with the fans booing him.

“Those are probably the same fans who won’t be quiet on offense when we’re trying to operate,” Mayfield said. “So (I) don’t really care.”