Browns OC expects QB Baker Mayfield to play vs. Lions

Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports

Browns OC Alex Van Pelt expects QB Baker Mayfield to play vs. Lions

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 11/18/21

Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield admitted Wednesday he is "probably the most beat up" he's been during his career as he attempts to play through a trio of injury setbacks but added he has every intention of starting when the 5-5 Browns host the 0-8-1 Detroit Lions on Sunday.

Mayfield missed Wednesday's practice, but Browns offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt suggested Thursday the QB will be good to go even before the weekend.

#Browns OC Alex Van Pelt: "I think we'll see Baker today (practicing)"
— 92.3 The Fan (@923TheFan) November 18, 2021

#Browns OC Alex Van Pelt on Baker Mayfield: "I know you want to talk about injuries, he's got a bunch of them. They all affect everything. It all adds up over time, but I think he'll be effective on Sunday. Effective enough to play."
— 92.3 The Fan (@923TheFan) November 18, 2021

Mayfield has been dealing with an injury to his non-throwing shoulder he first suffered on Sept. 19 that ultimately turned into a torn labrum and fractured bone at the top of the humerus. He is now carrying newer foot and knee issues into the Detroit contest.

#Browns OC Alex Van Pelt on Baker Mayfield dealing with injuries: "I think the mobility's definitely affected by it, but he's a guy that wants to be there for his teammates."
— 92.3 The Fan (@923TheFan) November 18, 2021

Backup Case Keenum filled in for Mayfield in last Sunday's blowout loss at the New England Patriots and is available to once again take over at the flip of a figurative switch. Per ESPN stats, Mayfield is currently 17th among eligible signal-callers with a 95.7 passer rating, 25th with a 42.9 total QBR and 22nd with 1,990 passing yards on the season. He has nine touchdown throws and four interceptions.

As for the Lions, quarterback Jared Goff is considered day-to-day with an oblique injury and missed practice for the second straight outing, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Tim Boyle is taking first-team reps in Goff's absence.

More must-reads: