Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield. Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Baker Mayfield excused from Browns' mandatory minicamp

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 6/8/22

Earlier this week, Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski wouldn't comment on whether quarterback Baker Mayfield would be -- or would be expected to be -- in attendance for next week's mandatory minicamp. On Wednesday morning, it was reported that a decision had been made regarding Mayfield's status.

The Browns and QB Baker Mayfield have decided that he will be excused from minicamp next week, per sources.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) June 8, 2022

The Browns and Baker Mayfield's agent had discussed options in recent days and being excused was considered the most likely scenario throughout those talks. Mayfield can stay away from the team without being subject to fines.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) June 8, 2022

According to Cleveland.com's Mary Kay Cabot, the conclusion was a mutual decision.

Pending Deshaun Watson's legal woes, Mayfield is presumed to have lost his starting job with the Browns after Cleveland acquired the former in March. The team is still believed to wish to trade Mayfield, perhaps to the Carolina Panthers or Seattle Seahawks, but any potential buyer wants the Browns to pick up most of the nearly $19 million of fully guaranteed salary owed to the 27-year-old for 2022 if they won't release him.

A former Heisman Trophy winner and No. 1 overall pick, Mayfield unsurprisingly hasn't been in attendance for any of Cleveland's voluntary team activities (OTAs).

In addition to the acquisition of Watson in the offseason, the Browns also brought in veteran Jacoby Brissett in case the former Houston Texans star is suspended.

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