Baker Mayfield: 'Probably Most Beat Up I've Been'

Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield has been playing like a man in pain. That's probably because he is one.

At least, that's what he told reporters during a media session on Wednesday.

“Pretty sore. That time of the year. One day at a time but I’ll be good," Mayfield said, via Zac Jackson of The Athletic. “Probably the most beat up I’ve been. Multiple things, not just one.”

Mayfield has been up-and-down all season, and the Browns (5-5) have bee right there with him. His non-throwing shoulder may require surgery at the end of the season and now there seems to be issues with his planting foot on throws, too.

As Jackson reported, Mayfield limped from the practice facility to give his interview on Wednesday.

All of this comes a season after which the Browns seemed to be on their way up, as they finished 11-5 and beat the rival Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the playoffs.

They spent the offseason puffing their chests and expecting big-time results. Instead, the Browns sit in last place in the AFC North with two games against the Baltimore Ravens, and trips to Pittsburgh and Green Bay among those still on the docket.

If Mayfield isn't totally healthy, and can't play up standard, the Browns may want to go with backup Case Keenum, and perhaps, wait again until next year.

For now, though, the plan remains for Mayfield to start against the lowly Detroit Lions (0-8-1) on Wednesday.