The Cleveland Browns have picked the first pick in the Draft Baker Mayfield – which is supposed to be the quarterback of the future in Cleveland. But the present looks different, confirmed Head Coach Hue Jackson.
“I’m not gonna change my mind about that. Tyrod Taylor is the starting quarterback of this football team. That will not change,” Jackson made clear after Saturday’s training session.
In view of his rookie quarterback, he continued: “Let’s put the brakes on Baker for a while. He has much to learn. I am extremely looking forward to him, he brings many of the characteristics we want to see. That’s why he’s here.”
Mayfield had some snap-fumble problems in his first session and promptly put in an extra shift after the session to practice snaps under center – something he hardly ever had to do in college. But Jackson was optimistic: “I think he’ll be able to do it quickly. He’s athletic and disciplined enough to do it.”
Jackson also provided insights into the first meeting of the two quarterbacks: Taylor had come to QB coach Ken Zampese’s office especially to introduce himself to Mayfield. “That was a fine gesture by Tyrod. He greeted Baker and showed that he wants to work with him. Baker has also done very well. I saw the interaction between the two and it seemed as if they were old friends. That’s how you can build a relationship with someone.”
In addition, according to NFL network reporter Aditi Kinkhabwala, Jackson also commented on his structural plans in the offense – and Jackson, his mark himself an offense coach, will obviously take a back seat. He confirmed that his new offensive coordinator Todd Haley enjoys “total autonomy” with regard to the offense, since he is “one of the best in this business”.