Baker Mayfield, the former No. 1 overall pick from the 2018 NFL Draft, has experienced a major turnaround in his career. After tumultuous seasons with the Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers, his stint with the Los Angeles Rams in late 2022 proved to be a pivotal moment.
Baker Mayfield’s Move to the Rams
Mayfield was traded to the Carolina Panthers in July 2022. His time in Carolina was marked by struggles, including an ankle injury and a decline to a third-string quarterback. By week 10, he decided to leave the Panthers, leading him to the Rams.
- Team: Los Angeles Rams
- Duration: Five weeks
- Situation: Rams were struggling with multiple injuries
A Life-Changing Experience
Mayfield described his time with the Rams as “life-changing.” He mentioned, “It was the biggest weight lifted off my shoulders that I had ever felt.” The Rams, who had lost six straight games, saw a revitalization with Mayfield’s arrival.
Instant Impact on the Team
Upon joining, he immediately engaged with the coaching staff, including head coach Sean McVay. Mayfield appreciated the Rams’ approach, as they focused on preparing him without overwhelming pressure. “If you feel comfortable, we’d love for you to be suited up,” McVay told him.
Preparation was key; Mayfield began studying the condensed game plan rapidly and participated in walk-through preparations, even in just a short time frame.
Memorable First Game
Mayfield’s debut came in a Thursday night game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Despite limited practice, he managed to lead the Rams to a victory, scoring a memorable touchdown pass to Van Jefferson in the final seconds.
Performance Highlights
- Led Rams to a 17-play touchdown drive
- Scored winning touchdown with 15 seconds left
- Completed key passes under pressure
A Transformative Period
Mayfield’s five-game stint in Los Angeles, though challenging, proved essential for his career. His experience with McVay helped refine his understanding of offensive strategies and game management.
Reflecting on his time with the Rams, Mayfield believed he discovered the offense he wanted to play in. “It was instrumental in my career,” he stated. As he transitioned to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023, his time in Los Angeles remained a highlight.
Future Prospects
After signing with the Buccaneers, Mayfield’s performance mirrored his potential. He recorded his career-high in yards and touchdowns, leading Tampa Bay to an NFC South title. Following a successful season, he secured a three-year contract worth $100 million.
Key Statistics in Tampa Bay
- Career-high passing yards: 4,044
- Touchdowns: 28
- New contract: $100 million (with $50 million guaranteed)
As for McVay, he continues to view Mayfield’s impact positively, commending his ability to ignite the Rams during a difficult season. “It was a fun month,” he said, reinforcing the growth both he and Mayfield experienced during their time together.
