The Cleveland Browns were one of the biggest storylines of the offseason specifically around the quarterback position. Early reports at the NFL combine were that the team would build around QB Baker Mayfield unless a clear upgrade was available.
Shortly after, the team pursued QB Deshaun Watson, flying down to Houston to speak with him. Mayfield requested a trade, it was reported that Watson had eliminated Cleveland before a twist of fate and choosing the Browns finally.
Mayfield was traded to Carolina while Watson was given the largest guaranteed contract in the NFL.
It is that final part that may have the biggest impact on the NFL and especially within the AFC North.
The Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals both have franchise quarterbacks who will be looking for new contracts soon. For the Ravens, that happens this offseason as QB Lamar Jackson is set for free agency.
Jackson has been negotiating with Baltimore on his own without an agent but stated earlier this offseason that he would not negotiate during the season. Wednesday we found out the exact deadline is Friday:
Friday deadline, Lamar said.
— Ryan Mink (@ryanmink) September 7, 2022
It is believed that guaranteed dollars are one of the biggest sticking points between the two parties due to what Cleveland gave Watson.
The Ravens can use the franchise tag on Jackson for the 2023 and 2024 seasons if they are unable to work out a long-term deal.
We will keep you up to date on the AFC North throughout the season. The division is highly competitive which makes news from the other teams important news for the Browns.
