Will the Cleveland Browns and Baker Mayfield soon go their separate ways? The quarterback is likely calling for significant changes, but the franchise could be looking at a fresh start either way.

Cleveland/Munich – It’s already clear: the NFL playoffs will be without the Cleveland Browns.

With a record of 7-9, the postseason is out of reach, the last three games were lost.

Baker Mayfield, in particular, is at the centre of the criticism. The quarterback threw a whopping seven interceptions during the losing streak and is considered the epitome of recent disappointment among Browns fans.

Both sides may be targeting a trade

While the franchise is probably already thinking about a future without Mayfield, it now appears the 26-year-old himself is flirting with a departure.

As reported by the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the playmaker is demanding an assurance “that things will change next season.” By that, Mayfield is probably referring primarily to the philosophy of play within the offense.

His relationship with head coach Kevin Stefanski is also considered strained. If the franchise doesn’t move in the direction Mayfield is targeting, he’ll likely ask for a trade.

Mayfield remains on rookie contract for one more year

So in light of recent developments, a departure seems more likely than ever.

Mayfield has one year left on his rookie contract. After the 2022 season, he would then be a free agent. Serious talks about a contract extension are said to have not yet taken place.