CLEVELAND — After the Cleveland Browns’ 26-14 loss to the Steelers on Monday, quarterback Baker Mayfield told reporters he plans on having offseason surgery to his non-throwing shoulder. 

What You Need To Know

  • Baker Mayfield will have offseason shoulder surgery

  • Mayfield has had reduced production this season as he has fought an injury to his non-throwing shoulder

  • The Browns were eliminated from playoff contention on Sunday

  • Mayfield will not play the final game of the year

Mayfield, who struggled to recapture a solid 2020 season that resulted in the Browns winning a playoff game, has worn a sling at times this season. The injury also forced Mayfield to miss a game in October. 

Mayfield also missed a game due to COVID-19 protocols. 

On Tuesday, head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that Mayfield will not play in Sunday's season finale against the Bengals. The game will not carry any playoff implications for the Browns as Cleveland was eliminated from contention over the weekend. 

“I am going to get this shoulder fixed and be able to come back next season at 100%,” Mayfield said following Monday's loss. “That’s been decided, but when it’s happening has not been decided.”

Despite Mayfield’s struggles this year, Stefnaksi has expressed confidence in the quarterback. Mayfield has faced criticism from fans at times this year. 

Stefanski defended his team’s quarterback after Monday’s loss. Stefanksi blamed himself for the team allowing eight sacks during Monday’s game. 

“He was battling in there,” Stefanski said. 

Mayfield is hopeful that a downtrodden 2021 season can be left in 2021.

“There have been a lot of ups and downs,” Mayfield said. “Do I believe I can play better? Absolutely. Do I believe there are positions that we as an offense that we could have been put in that are better? Absolutely. There are so many critiques throughout the year.”

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