Former NFL cornerback Richard Sherman praised Baker Mayfield’s competitive edge and highlighted the quarterback’s “mean” nature as a positive trait. His comments mark a notable change from their past conflicts dating back to 2019.
During Thursday’s appearance on Kay Adams’ “Up & Adams” show, Sherman, a five-time Pro Bowl selection, expressed his appreciation for Mayfield’s competitive mentality. The timing of his comments coincides with the rebirth of Mayfield’s career in Tampa Bay.
“Yeah, I like everything mean. I’m here for the mean,” Sherman said in response to Adams’ question about appreciating a mean quarterback.
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He added that Mayfield would likely use his past history as motivation, saying:
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“I’m sure Baker knows the history and the meanness of Baker in that sense. And I like that about him.”
Their relationship made headlines in October 2019 when Sherman accused Baker Mayfield of snubbing him during a pregame handshake. This was before a game between the 49ers and Browns. Mayfield was the Browns’ quarterback at the time. Although video evidence later contradicted Sherman’s initial claim, the incident exemplified their complicated dynamic.
Baker Mayfield’s journey from being aware of criticism to signing for $100 million
Baker Mayfield’s approach to handling criticism has evolved significantly. At a press conference on Thursday, he revealed his departure from social media.
“I used to take a lot of notes and try to prove people wrong, but that’s not the way to live life,” Mayfield said.
The change has paid off. Mayfield posted career-best numbers in 2024, throwing for 4,500 yards and 41 touchdowns. His performance helped secure back-to-back NFC South titles for the Buccaneers. He went from being a nearly out-of-league quarterback to signing a three-year, $100 million contract.
“You’ve got to believe in yourself, you’ve got to keep going, play for each other,” Mayfield said at the news conference.
Baker Mayfield’s focus now turns to playoff success as the Buccaneers prepare to host the Commanders in their wild card matchup.
Edited by Krutik Jain.