Baker Mayfield bashes Giants fans in defense of Odell Beckham Jr.

Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield came to the defense of new teammate Odell Beckham Jr. in a recent interview.  

In doing so, Mayfield threw shade at New York Giants fans, who were at times critical of the Pro Bowl wide receiver’s work ethic and commitment during his five-year stint with the franchise. 

“He’s here to work, and he wants to be surrounded by people who love and support him and allow him to be himself,” Mayfield told ESPN. “He’s here (in Cleveland) to play in front of fans who actually care, who will actually show up to every game and pack the stadium and love him for who he is.”

Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield, right, answers a question during a news conference as Odell Beckham looks on Monday, April 1, 2019, in Berea, Ohio. (Photo: Ron Schwane, AP)

While Mayfield was taking a shot at the apathy of Giants fans amidst a three-win season, the team still had top-five attendance numbers in 2018 — with an average of 76,940 fans according to ESPN. 

Mayfield previously defended Beckham in May, calling Fox Sports’ Colin Cowherd a “clown” for criticizing the receiver and his interest in playing for the Browns. 

Beckham was traded to the Browns in March one year into a five-year, $95 million extension he signed with the Giants. Mayfield has welcomed Beckham with open arms ahead of his 2019 debut, with the team hoping the receiver is the final piece for a playoff push. Last season as a rookie Mayfield (27 touchdowns, 3,725 passing yards) guided the Browns to seven wins in a turnaround season. 

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