Can the Saints Learn Patience from Baker Mayfield’s Journey?
Baker Mayfield, currently with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, exemplifies perseverance in the NFL. He has played for four teams and experienced the leadership of eight head coaches and eight offensive coordinators over eight seasons. As he approaches his third season with the Buccaneers, his journey reflects a larger narrative of resilience among quarterbacks in the league.
Lessons in Patience from Baker Mayfield’s Journey
The 2023 NFL season has been marked by a trend of second chances for quarterbacks. This phenomenon is not limited to Mayfield; it also includes other notable players like Daniel Jones and Sam Darnold. Each has found new life with different teams after challenging starts to their careers.
Quarterbacks on Second Chances
- Baker Mayfield: Now with the Buccaneers, has shown resilience after moving four times.
- Daniel Jones: Revitalized his career with the Indianapolis Colts.
- Sam Darnold: Thriving with the Seattle Seahawks after previous struggles.
- Mac Jones: Despite being labeled a bust, he has stepped up for the 49ers.
This ongoing resurgence emphasizes the importance of patience, especially for the New Orleans Saints as they prepare to face Mayfield. Quarterback Spencer Rattler recently stumbled in performance, resulting in discussions about the possibility of rookie Tyler Shough stepping in. Saints coach Kellen Moore has reiterated the need to support Rattler, highlighting the challenges young quarterbacks face.
Adversity as an Opportunity
Moore stated that adversity is a crucial part of a young quarterback’s development. He emphasized that blockages in a quarterback’s growth could occur due to various factors, including organizational support. The experiences of Mayfield and Darnold from previous teams reveal the often overlooked impact of supportive frameworks in shaping a player’s success.
The Organizational Role
The narrative around Baker Mayfield’s trade from the Cleveland Browns and Daniel Jones’ exit from the Giants raises pertinent questions. Organizations tend to act when results fall short, often leading to premature departures for young talents. Rattler, at just 25 years old, continues to seek his footing in the league, despite a 1-12 starter record. His progress from year one to year two reflects growing potential.
The Need for Patience
Demario Davis, a linebacker for the Saints, shared insights on the importance of patience in player development. Having faced multiple trades and transitions in his early career, Davis became an All-Pro with New Orleans. He emphasized that it can take time for players to find their place and fully unleash their potential.
Final Thoughts on Patience in the NFL
The journey of Baker Mayfield and others highlights the necessity of patience in the NFL. Rattler’s situation is emblematic of a broader issue where players and organizations must commit to long-term growth rather than quick fixes. As the Saints take on the Buccaneers, they face a potent reminder of the rewards that patience can yield.
