The 2021 season has been a pivotal one for Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield, both on and off the field.
A No. 1 overall pick in 2018, he has helped transform the franchise from bottom-dwelling strugglers to playoff qualifiers through a combination of his toughness and leadership.
However, he and the team have struggled maintaining consistency on the field, casting doubts about whether the team will opt to offer him a new long-term contract.
However, away from the field Mayfield has also been displaying his leadership qualities.
He has long spoken out in defense of Julius Jones, who had been convicted of the 1999 murder of Paul Howell during a carjacking. Jones has been on death row for nearly 20 years, but the 40-year-old, his family, attorneys and supporters say he is innocent.
Last season, Mayfield displayed Jones’ name on the back of his helmet in solidarity for the inmate.