Game day update: Mayfield is expected to be active and starting on Sunday, per Adam Schefter.
Friday update: Baker Mayfield is officially listed as questionable on the final injury report with a rib injury, though reports say he is “trending in the right direction” and should be available for Sunday’s outing against the Steelers. Case Keenum would get the start in his absence.
The Cleveland Browns are on a hot streak, as they have won four straight following their Week 1 loss to Baltimore. The Browns offense is firing on all cylinders, as they are averaging a whopping 37.5 points per game over that four week period. Despite the big point totals, Baker Mayfield’s fantasy numbers have been mediocre at best (14.0 ppg average), as most of the offensive production has come on the ground. They will need to continue to put up a lot of points this week as they look to continue their win streak against an undefeated Pittsburgh Steelers team. Will Mayfield take a step forward this week? We break down the fantasy implications below.
Fantasy Football analysis: Browns QB Baker Mayfield
The Pittsburgh Steelers are tough match-up through the air and Baker Mayfield will have his work cut out for him in Week 6. The Steelers are allowing an average of 237.1 passing yards per game and have allowed eight passing touchdowns while recording six interceptions on the year. Mayfield got a little banged up in Week 5, as he had x-rays of his ribs taken after the game, but he seems to have avoided major injury. Per Mayfield, his availability for Week 6 is not in doubt, but it’s a situation to monitor nonetheless.
Though the Steelers are tough through the air, they are even tougher on the ground, allowing an average of only 64.1 yards per game and only three rushing touchdowns this year. This may force the Browns to throw more often, but even with increased passing volume, it may be wise to avoid Mayfield this week. The combination of Mayfield’s low production thus far, possible injury status, and tough match-up does not instill confidence in him as your starting QB. There are likely better options with better match-ups available in standard leagues.
Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation
Sit Baker Mayfield in most single quarterback fantasy football leagues.