Former NFL cornerback Richard Sherman praised Baker Mayfield’s competitive advantage and highlighted the quarterback’s “small” nature as a positive attribute. His comments mark a notable shift from their past conflicts dating back to 2019.
During Thursday’s appearance on Kay Adams’ “Up & Adams” show, Sherman, a five-time Pro Bowler, expressed his appreciation for Mayfield’s competitive mentality. The timing of his comments coincides with Mayfield’s career renaissance in Tampa Bay.
“Yes, I like everything small. I’m here for small things,” Sherman said in response to Adams’ question about appreciating a small quarterback.
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He added that Mayfield would likely use their past as motivation, saying:
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“I’m sure Baker knows the history and Baker’s pettiness that way. And I like that about him.”
Their relationship made headlines in October 2019 when Sherman Baker accused Mayfield of rejecting him during a pre-game handshake. This was before a 49ers-Browns game. Mayfield was the QB for the Browns at the time. Although video evidence later contradicted Sherman’s initial claim, the incident was an example of their complicated dynamic.
Baker Mayfield’s journey from scrutiny to $100 million signee
Baker Mayfield’s approach to dealing with criticism has evolved considerably. During a press conference on Thursday, he announced that he is distancing himself from social media.
“I kept a lot of notes and tried 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 with 4,500 yards and 41 touchdowns. His performance helped secure back-to-back NFC South titles for the Buccaneers. He went from nearly being out of the league as a quarterback to signing a three-year, $100 million contract.
“You have to believe in yourself, you have to go above and beyond and play for each other,” Mayfield said at the press 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