Making the case why Baker Mayfield should be Seahawks QB of the future

Verdict: The argument for the Seahawks and Baker Mayfield

The case has been made for Baker Mayfield. He’s not a Seahawk, but it seems very possible he could be. This is one of the more unique divorces that the NFL has ever seen. The funny part about it, is that Seattle just completed one of the other most unique divorces in football.

Baker can be everything you want, and also worry about as an NFL quarterback. Pete Carroll can be everything you want, and also worry about as an NFL head coach. Their mindsets, attitude, and stubbornness are a near-perfect fit for each other. I believe Baker will eventually become a Seattle Seahawks.

So in this universe, how would it go if Baker was a Hawk?

Best case scenario

Baker signs with Seattle for cheap after being cut and immediately wins the job. His shoulder and body is healthy and he quickly wins over the fanbase with his more down-to-earth “why not us?” mindset. We see Baker and Metcalf build a special connection as D.K. becomes one of the best receivers in the league, leading the NFL in TDs.

Seattle survives through the first half of the season, going 4-4. From there, the offensive line and running game click and Seattle gets hot in the second half, finishing 7-2 the rest of the way. A home victory over the Los Angeles Rams in the season finale secures Seattle a stunning division title. Baker leads the Seahawks to the NFC championship, before bowing out.

Baker’s stellar play and fit in Seattle is a perfect match, as he signs a four-year extension that pays him right around thirty million per year. With Seattle locking in their franchise QB, they attack the 2023 draft, loading up on defense to help them get to the super bowl in 2024.

Worst case scenario

Seattle doesn’t wait to see if Cleveland is going to cut Baker, instead of trading a 3rd round pick and taking a chunk of his salary. Baker comes to Seattle, and while he’ll have moments, he’s still the same inconsistent QB we have seen. Not bad enough to tank, but not good enough to compete, Seattle finishes 7-10, with Baker missing a few games due to injuries.

The awkward season leads to Seattle missing out on a top-five pick, and losing the chance to get that top-tier rookie QB. Seattle essentially is in the same position they are now, but no closer to contention.

Verdict

Baker eventually is released and signs with Seattle. He surprises and looks pretty good at the start, but his body and consistency fluctuate. Seattle wins 9 games, and finishes close to the playoffs, maybe even sneaking in. Seattle gets better as a team, thanks to Baker, but he’s not good enough to warrant the price he’ll feel he’s worth, and Seattle will look elsewhere in 2023.