The Cleveland Browns have been through the wringer as of late. The team underwent some off-the-field drama that ultimately led to the release of receiver Odell Beckham Jr., running back Nick Chubb missed Week 10 after testing positive for COVID-19, and they were blown out at the hands of the Patriots last Sunday to fall to .500 on the year. To make matters even more strenuous on Cleveland, quarterback Baker Mayfield noted on Wednesday that he's "probably the most beat up" he's been in his NFL career.
The 26-year-old was already dealing with a torn labrum in his left shoulder prior to Week 10, but then exited Sunday's contest with New England after suffering a knee contusion. He was medically cleared to return to that game, but the Browns staff ultimately decided to keep him on the shelf to prevent further injury.
"Pretty sore," Mayfield said Wednesday when asked how he's feeling physically. "Just that time of the year. One day at a time at this point but I'll be good. ... This is probably the most beat up I've ever been in my career. It's not like it's one particular thing. It's multiple. It's just that time of the year and things add up, and just a couple of things after another. It is what it is."
As these injuries have piled up, Mayfield and the Browns have struggled, losing four of their last six games. Even before suffering the knee injury, Mayfield did struggle in the passing game throwing for just 36 yards in the first half (a career low).
"There's definitely a couple plays where, you know, I look back and say, 'maybe I would've used my feet here and there,'" Mayfield said when asked if the injuries have limited his play at all this season. "But I have to adapt. Nobody is going to feel bad for you. It's not an excuse, you just got to find a way to make a play."
To his credit, Mayfield has only missed one game due to injury (Week 7 vs. Denver). He also plans to play this week when the Browns play host to the Detroit Lions in hopes of remaining in the playoff picture in the AFC.
