Quarterback's Fiery Social Media Exchange Sets Stage for NFL Rivalry
When the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons clash during the upcoming NFL season, one post-game handshake appears highly unlikely. Current Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield has launched a public rebuke of his former Cleveland Browns head coach, Kevin Stefanski, who recently accepted the head coaching position with Atlanta.
A Trade That Still Stings
The controversy ignited on social media platform X after an Atlanta Journal-Constitution reporter characterized Mayfield's tenure in Cleveland as part of a "dumpster fire at quarterback" that Stefanski had managed. The reporter's post suggested that both Mayfield and Deshaun Watson had failed under Stefanski's leadership, triggering a chain reaction affecting numerous other starters.
Mayfield responded swiftly and pointedly. "Failed is quite the reach," the quarterback fired back, before delivering his most cutting remark. "Still waiting on a text/call from him after I got shipped off like a piece of garbage. Can't wait to see you twice a year, Coach."
Historical Context and Performance Records
The social media platform X quickly appended context notes to the original post, providing crucial background that challenges the "failure" narrative. These notes highlighted that Mayfield guided the Browns to an 11-5 record in 2020, securing their first playoff appearance since 2002 and their first playoff victory since 1994. Furthermore, they noted that Mayfield played through a significant shoulder injury during the 2021 season.
Since departing Cleveland, Mayfield's career trajectory has been notably upward. His statistics with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers tell a story of resurgence:
- Over 14,400 passing yards
- 113 touchdown passes against 47 interceptions
- A completion percentage of 69.1%
- Two Pro Bowl selections
- Playoff appearances in both 2024 and 2025
- A third-place finish for Comeback Player of the Year in 2023
Contrasting Coaching and Quarterback Fortunes
The performance records since their separation reveal a stark contrast. While Mayfield has flourished in Tampa Bay, Stefanski's coaching record without Mayfield as his quarterback stands at 26-43, representing a winning percentage of just .376. The coach has secured only one playoff appearance in the post-Mayfield era.
The situation with Deshaun Watson, who replaced Mayfield in Cleveland, has been particularly troubled. Watson's tenure began with a six-game suspension following numerous allegations of sexual misconduct and has been marred by persistent injuries. He has appeared in merely 19 games over four seasons, and his performance when healthy has ranked among the league's weakest. His fully guaranteed $230 million contract is frequently cited as one of the most regrettable in sports history.
Anticipating the NFC South Battles
Although the official NFL schedule won't be released until after April's draft, it is already confirmed that the Buccaneers and Falcons will face each other twice during the regular season as NFC South division rivals. These matchups now carry significantly heightened drama and personal stakes, transforming routine divisional games into must-watch television.
Mayfield's candid remarks have not only exposed lingering resentment from his Cleveland departure but have also effectively raised the competitive temperature for the entire NFC South. Football fans can now anticipate two emotionally charged contests where past grievances will collide with present ambitions on the gridiron.
