3 reasons why the Browns should sign Cam Newton

Pressure on Baker Mayfield

Having someone like former Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton waiting in the wings would put a huge amount of pressure on Baker Mayfield to succeed under center. This might actually be a good thing for the first overall selection in 2018.

Mayfield regressed considerably during his sophomore year, which played a huge contributing factor in the Cleveland Browns failing to meet lofty expectations. The signal-caller has all the tools one is looking for in a franchise player. But he seemed to take his eye off the ball in 2019 and paid the price.

This could be down to complacency or believing his own hype. One was hard-pressed to turn on a television and not see Mayfield’s face on some sort of commercial. And he needs to focus his attention on performing well on the field going forward.

The presence of Newton on the Browns’ roster should increase Mayfield’s level of urgency. This is a pivotal year for the player and it is an opportunity that cannot pass him by.

Having Newton around would also give Mayfield a strong role model who came into the league in very similar circumstances. Both were No. 1 picks and generated plenty of attention from the outset. So leaning on the former Panthers’ standout during difficult periods could be invaluable.

At the very least, it should set a fire under Mayfield that could see an increase in production. The Browns’ offense is loaded with talent. And the gunslinger is also set to have improved protection in 2020.