Baker Mayfield Cites 'Freedom of Speech' Issue for Ref Criticism in Childish Response to NFL's Fine

The Cleveland Browns have been unable to live up to the lofty expectations many NFL fans had for them this year. Despite their lack of success this season, quarterback Baker Mayfield hasn't shied away from making headlines with his personal opinions regarding officiating.

Mayfield was fined for comments critical of NFL officials, and he was not happy about it. Now Mayfield is complaining about the fine, stating that he was simply exercising his first amendment rights.

Oh cool, Mayfield is working the "freedom of speech" angle. Cool cool cool cool cool. Cool. Cool. https://t.co/kIiL7GsAed
— Mike Tanier (@MikeTanier) October 24, 2019

The 2017 Hesiman Trophy winner said that he knew he'd be fined for his critical comments, and low and behold he was right.

But just because he knew the fine was coming, doesn't mean he agrees with the league's decision.

#Browns QB Baker Mayfield was fined $12,500 for public comments regarding officiating, source said. He told reporters, "I'll probably be fined for saying this, but it was pretty bad out there.” And he was correct (on the fine).
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 19, 2019

It's a good thing Mayfield is rolling in money from all the commercials he did in the offseason, because there's a good chance that the NFL fines him again for his most recent comments.

Mayfield hasn't played well in his second year in the league, so blaming the refs feels like he is deflecting blame from himself. He needs to take more responsibility for the Browns' early season struggles rather than complaining about the officials.

The former No. 1 overall pick is known for his fiery personality. That's a great characteristic to have if you're performing well, which he and the Browns are not. When you are losing, remarks like these just come off as ridiculous and display a lack of accountability.