A legend of the Oklahoma Sooners has been called an incredible trade candidate.

The Oklahoma Sooners have long been a storied football program, known for their storied history, elite athletes, and the legendary names that have made a mark on college football. From Heisman-winning quarterbacks to dominant defensive players, the Sooners have produced some of the best talent in college football history. Recently, however, one particular legend from the Oklahoma Sooners has emerged as a potential trade candidate in the world of professional football. This has raised eyebrows, as it’s rare for a legendary player, often synonymous with a program’s success, to be considered a trade piece. This potential trade move has set the stage for what could be a dramatic shift for both the player and the team that once called him a cornerstone.

The Legendary Player: A Brief History

For years, the Oklahoma Sooners have produced some of the best players in college football, and one of the legends whose name has been etched in Sooners history is none other than Baker Mayfield, the Heisman-winning quarterback who helped elevate the Sooners to new heights. Mayfield, who played for the Sooners from 2015 to 2017, had an illustrious college career that culminated in winning the prestigious Heisman Trophy in 2017. He was known for his swagger, confidence, and most importantly, his ability to lead his team to victory.

During his time in Norman, Mayfield set numerous records, not only for Oklahoma but for college football in general. His leadership, arm strength, and competitive drive made him one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects in recent memory. His success at Oklahoma cemented his status as one of the best players to ever wear the crimson and cream.

However, after being selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Cleveland Browns in the 2018 NFL Draft, Mayfield’s pro career has been anything but straightforward. While he showed flashes of brilliance, he has struggled to find consistent success in the NFL. His time with the Browns was tumultuous, leading to a trade to the Carolina Panthers and eventually a brief stint with the Los Angeles Rams. This brings us to the present moment, where Baker Mayfield is once again finding himself at the center of trade rumors—this time with even bigger stakes.

The Case for Baker Mayfield as an Incredible Trade Candidate

Baker Mayfield’s trade value has been a topic of debate among NFL analysts and fans for quite some time. While his NFL journey has had its ups and downs, there’s no denying his potential when he’s playing at his best. Here are several reasons why Mayfield is seen as a valuable trade candidate:

1. Proven College Success: Baker Mayfield’s legacy at Oklahoma is undeniable. He is the embodiment of success, having taken the Sooners to multiple College Football Playoff appearances and winning numerous individual awards, including the 2017 Heisman Trophy. His time at Oklahoma showcased his incredible arm strength, mobility, and leadership. Any NFL team that trades for him would be betting on that same potential, believing that the version of Mayfield who excelled at Oklahoma could be unlocked in the right environment.
2. Improved Play in 2022 and 2023: Mayfield’s time with the Rams in 2022 provided glimpses of what he’s capable of when surrounded by the right coaching and talent. His performance in the latter part of the 2022 season, after stepping in mid-year, showed that he still had the tools to be a starting quarterback in the NFL. By the time the 2023 season rolled around, his play had improved significantly, and teams began to take notice of his potential for a resurgence.
3. Quarterback Desperation Across the League: The NFL has seen a significant shift in terms of the quarterback position. Teams are constantly looking for a franchise quarterback, and when one becomes available, the demand can often outweigh the supply. Many teams are in desperate need of a quarterback, whether due to injury, underperformance, or long-term struggles at the position. Given this environment, a player with the pedigree of Baker Mayfield—who has already shown flashes of elite potential—becomes a highly sought-after asset for franchises looking to secure their future under center.
4. Versatility and Experience: Mayfield has spent time with multiple teams in a variety of systems, which has allowed him to adapt and grow as a player. His experience with both the Cleveland Browns and Los Angeles Rams exposed him to different offensive schemes and coaching styles. This gives him a diverse skill set and an ability to adjust to new systems, making him an intriguing option for teams in need of an experienced quarterback who can step in immediately and make an impact.
5. The Right Team Fit: The situation surrounding Baker Mayfield could be the key to unlocking his full potential. A change in scenery, paired with the right supporting cast and coaching staff, could allow Mayfield to thrive in a way he hasn’t been able to with past teams. Teams that are built to compete now, such as those with strong defenses and potent skill position players, may be more inclined to make a trade for Mayfield, hoping that he can be the missing piece for their playoff aspirations.

Potential Landing Spots for Baker Mayfield

While Baker Mayfield’s NFL career has been far from linear, it’s clear that there are several teams that could benefit from trading for the former Oklahoma legend. The following are some potential landing spots for Mayfield, should a trade become imminent:

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: After Tom Brady’s retirement, the Buccaneers are in search of a quarterback who can stabilize the position and lead the team back to contention. With a talented roster that includes weapons like Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, as well as a solid defense, the Buccaneers could view Mayfield as a player who could step in and help them remain competitive in the NFC South.
2. Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings have made the playoffs in recent seasons, but their quarterback situation is one that could be improved. Kirk Cousins is nearing the end of his tenure in Minnesota, and while he’s been a steady presence, Mayfield’s potential for growth could be appealing to the Vikings. If the team is looking for a quarterback who offers more upside, Mayfield could be a trade target.
3. Washington Commanders: The Commanders have been in quarterback purgatory for years, with a revolving door of underperforming quarterbacks. Mayfield could be a solid option for Washington, as he would provide an upgrade over their current options. With a strong defense and solid offensive weapons, the Commanders could be a team ready to take a chance on Mayfield to stabilize the quarterback position and get back into the playoff hunt.
4. San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers are one of the most talented teams in the NFL, but their quarterback situation has been a bit murky in recent years due to injuries and inconsistent play. If the 49ers believe that Mayfield can step into their system and play at a high level, he could provide the final piece for a Super Bowl-contending team.
5. New York Giants: While Daniel Jones is currently the starter in New York, his inconsistency has left the door open for other options. If the Giants are looking for more competition at the position, or if they decide to move on from Jones, Mayfield could be a potential trade target for the Giants, who have a strong defense and an improving offense.

The Impact of Trading a Legend

The potential trade of Baker Mayfield would undoubtedly be a significant moment in both his career and the Oklahoma Sooners’ legacy. Mayfield’s name is forever tied to the Sooners, and it’s clear that he was one of the most talented quarterbacks to ever play in Norman. His departure from the program to the NFL was met with great anticipation, and it’s been fascinating to watch his evolution as a professional quarterback.

However, for Oklahoma fans, seeing Mayfield potentially traded again could be bittersweet. While it’s been a rollercoaster ride in the NFL, Mayfield’s success at Oklahoma and his role in bringing national attention to the program remains a high point in Sooners history.

For Baker Mayfield, a trade could represent a fresh start—a chance to prove that he’s still capable of being an NFL starter. With the right team, he may yet fulfill his potential and rewrite the narrative that has followed him since his time at Oklahoma.

As the trade rumors continue to swirl, only time will tell where Mayfield’s career will take him next. Regardless of the outcome, his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in Oklahoma Sooners history remains intact. Whether he’s traded to another NFL team or eventually returns to form, Mayfield’s impact on the Sooners and the NFL is undeniable, and his story is far from over.