Why the Browns can't be status quo at QB going into 2022

Cover 2 - A Podcast on the Cleveland Browns

Throughout the season on the Cover 2 podcast, Nate Ulrich and Dan Kadar have been checking in with their thoughts on Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield.

The overarching theme to the Browns' season is whether or not Mayfield can be the longterm franchise quarterback the team drafted him No. 1 overall to be. Through 16 games of the regular season, there still isn't an answer.

Mayfield has been playing through injuries throughout the season, and it's impacting his play. That was evidenced in Week 16 when when he threw four interceptions in a loss to the Las Vegas Raiders.

Nate and Dan discuss why going in to 2022 the Browns simply can't just be status quo at quarterback. But does that mean drafting or signing legitimate competition for Mayfield, or replacing him with a star quarterback like Aaron Rodgers, Deshaun Watson or Russell Wilson?

Of course, the Browns are still in contention for the playoffs, though they need a lot of help. The guys talk about the return of Jedrick Wills Jr. and whether or not he should play at right tackle with Joel Bitonio holding his own at left tackle.

They also talk about the improved Browns defense, and whether or not coordinator Joe Woods could get some interest as a head coach this offseason.

This week's show closes with a preview of "Monday Night Football" against the Pittsburgh Steelers in what could be Ben Roethlisberger's final game at Heinz Field. Nate and Dan end the show with some thoughts on the passing of football titan John Madden.