Baker Mayfield could speed up Matthew Stafford’s retirement, according to GMFB co-host
Baker Mayfield joining the Los Angeles Rams joins the short list of most surprising plot twists in 2022. One NFL analyst, meanwhile, is preparing for another mega twist.
Speaking on "Kyle Brandt's Basement," Kyle Brandt predicted that this could be Matthew Stafford's final year in the league. The "Good Morning Football" host believes a path exists for Mayfield to take up Stafford's mantle. Here's how he put it:
"It's going to be this bizarre period where Baker Mayfield was in a Rams jersey wearing number 17 or could this have a future? I would say Matthew Stafford's future is murky as the Rams' quarterback. Some very, very dark injuries this year [with the] concussion stuff, back stuff."
Brandt went on to explain why Stafford could be considering leaving his place of work:
"He's a family man with a wife and a bunch of daughters. His wife is very outspoken [with] concerns for his health. Could he hang it up after this year? Maybe.
"And then, is Baker Mayfield going to be the guy taking the keys from Sean McVay and throwing to Cooper Kupp? It'd be crazy if Sean McVay is even back next year."
How many teams has new Los Angeles Rams QB Baker Mayfield played for?
Since the start of 2021, the Los Angeles Rams' newest quarterback has played for three teams.
Baker Mayfield was originally drafted by the Cleveland Browns, who expected big things from him in 2021 after he led the team on a playoff run the previous year. However, he and other key personnel suffered injuries and stumbled at key points as the Browns endured a disappointing season.
Source: Rams want to go through pregame warmups tonight and see how John Wolford - who is listed as questionable with a neck injury - is doing before deciding who will start at QB. If Wolford is not healthy enough to play, Baker Mayfield would be in line to start vs. the Raiders. https://t.co/p1rK5kvEnq
By the end of the year, the team was done with the quarterback and looking in the direction of Deshaun Watson. Mayfield eventually landed with the Carolina Panthers, but failed to impress enough to keep Sam Darnold from supplanting him.
Soon after the switch, he asked for a release. The Panthers obliged and Mayfield didn't clear waivers, landing with the Los Angeles Rams.
Former No. 1 overall pick Baker Mayfield was claimed on waivers today by the Los Angeles Rams, per league sources. The Rams now inherit the remaining $1.35 million on Mayfield’s contract. Mayfield is expected to fly to LA by tonight and could play Thursday night vs. the Raiders. https://t.co/CAIVhY25Nu
Will Mayfield provide an entertaining conclusion to the season or could this be his final stop?
If any of the above quotes are used, please credit Kyle Brandt's Basement and H/T Sportskeeda.