5 players who Browns need to be great in 2019

2. Baker Mayfield, Quarterback

Wondering if the Browns could have been a playoff team in 2018 if they started Baker Mayfield from the get-go is a legitimate and rational thought. In 14 games and 13 starts, he threw for 3,725 yards, tossed 27 scores and 14 interceptions, completed just under 64 percent of his throws and went 6-7.

If Saquon Barkley didn’t have an incredible year and become the only capable player on the offensive side of the ball for the New York Giants, Mayfield easily wins offensive rookie of the year.

Mayfield was as good as advertised, if not better, during his rookie campaign. As is the case with Ward, it seems almost irrational to ask for a second-year player, especially one that plays quarterback, to be great so early in their careers. However, Dorsey and head coach Freddie Kitchens need Mayfield do be just that in 2019.

Dorsey went out and brought in Beckham, which wasn’t cheap both financially and asset wise. Put Beckham with Landry, Chubb and David Njoku, and you have got yourself an offense loaded with weapons.

However, Mayfield is the key gear in making this machine work. When you look at the Browns on paper, you feel inclined to believe Mayfield can throw for over 4,000 yards with around 35 touchdowns in 2019. If he does that, or better, the Browns may finally break this curse and find themselves as top contenders.