Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) shouts to the crowd before the game between the Cleveland Browns and the Miami Dolphins at FirstEnergy Stadium. Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

Browns exercise Baker Mayfield's fifth-year option

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 4/23/21

The Cleveland Browns have exercised Baker Mayfield's fifth-year option, according to ESPN's Jake Trotter. The move extends Mayfield's contract through the 2022 season.

The move extends Mayfield’s contract in Cleveland through 2022, when he’ll make $18.86 million
— Jake Trotter (@Jake_Trotter) April 23, 2021

Mayfield had the best season of his career in 2020, completing 62.8% of his passes for 3,563 yards and 26 touchdowns against eight interceptions. He also ran for 165 yards and a score.

The 26-year-old led Cleveland into the playoffs with an 11-5 record. The Browns defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers 48-37 in the Wild Card Round for their first playoff win in 26 years, but fell to the Kansas City Chiefs 22-17 in the Divisional Round.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said Tuesday that he has very high expectations for Mayfield entering the 2021 season. He added that the coaching staff has already given the young QB some things to work on and that offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt has a "strong plan" to elevate Mayfield's performance next season.

The former No. 1 overall pick is also eligible for a contract extension, and the team could enter negotiations with him later this offseason, Trotter notes.

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