Browns Exercise Options On Baker Mayfield, Denzel Ward

Baker Mayfield led the Cleveland Browns to heights they haven't seen in decades, so the Browns intend to keep him around. They proved it Friday, by making the simple move of picking up Mayfield's fifth-year option, per multiple reports. The Browns also exercised the fifth-year option on top cornerback Denzel Ward.

These moves hardly required a lot of consideration from Browns deep thinkers. The Browns are coming off a season in which they not only made the postseason, but they throttled the rival Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the AFC playoffs. They then put up a decent fight against the eventual AFC champion Kansas City Chiefs.

Mayfield’s deal with the Browns now runs through 2022, "when he’ll make $18.86 million," ESPN's Jake Trotter reported.

Mayfield started every game, guiding Cleveland to an 11-5 finish. He went 305-for-486 passing for 3,563 yards, with 26 touchdowns and eight interceptions.

Ward appeared in 12 games, compiling 45 tackles (including 37 solo) and picking off two passes.