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Who's Better: Matt Stafford Vs Baker Mayfield

Trends January 10, 2025

Who is a better quarterback, Matt Stafford or Baker Mayfield?

Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield are two of the most popular and successful quarterbacks in the NFL today. Stafford has been with the Detroit Lions since 2009, while Mayfield has been with the Cleveland Browns since 2018. Both quarterbacks have had their share of ups and downs, but they have also both led their teams to the playoffs.

Stafford is a more experienced quarterback than Mayfield, having played in the NFL for over a decade. He is also a more consistent passer, completing over 60% of his passes in each of the past five seasons. Mayfield, on the other hand, is a more mobile quarterback and is a better runner than Stafford. He is also a more accurate passer, completing over 65% of his passes in each of the past two seasons.

So, who is a better quarterback, Matt Stafford or Baker Mayfield? It is a tough question to answer, as both quarterbacks have their own strengths and weaknesses. Stafford is a more experienced and consistent passer, while Mayfield is a more mobile and accurate passer. Ultimately, it is up to each individual fan to decide who they think is the better quarterback.

	Matt Stafford	Baker Mayfield
Years in the NFL	13	5
Passing yards	45,109	14,125
Passing touchdowns	282	92
Interceptions	144	56
Passer rating	89.9	91.4

Main article topics

Matt Stafford's career
Baker Mayfield's career
Comparison of Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield
Who is the better quarterback, Matt Stafford or Baker Mayfield?

Matt Stafford or Baker Mayfield

When comparing Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield, several key aspects come into focus, each highlighting a different dimension of their abilities and contributions to the game of football.

Experience
Passing ability
Mobility
Leadership
Team success
Individual accolades
Contract
Play style

These aspects provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of both quarterbacks, allowing for a nuanced understanding of their respective contributions to the sport.

1. Experience

In the world of professional sports, experience is often considered an invaluable asset. For quarterbacks, who are responsible for leading their teams to victory, experience can be the difference between success and failure. Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield are two quarterbacks who have taken different paths to success, but both have benefited from the experience they have gained along the way.

Stafford has been a starting quarterback in the NFL since 2009, while Mayfield is entering his fifth season as a starter. Stafford has played in 174 regular season games and 13 playoff games, while Mayfield has played in 62 regular season games and 1 playoff game. This difference in experience is evident in the way the two quarterbacks play the game.

Stafford is a more poised and composed quarterback than Mayfield. He is less likely to make mistakes and is better able to manage the game. Mayfield, on the other hand, is a more aggressive quarterback who is willing to take risks. He is also more mobile than Stafford, which allows him to extend plays and make plays outside of the pocket.

Both Stafford and Mayfield have had their share of success in the NFL. Stafford has led the Lions to the playoffs three times, while Mayfield led the Browns to their first playoff appearance in over two decades in 2020. However, Stafford has also been criticized for his lack of postseason success, while Mayfield has been praised for his ability to win games in big moments.Ultimately, the experience that Stafford and Mayfield have gained has helped them to become two of the best quarterbacks in the NFL. Stafford is a more experienced and consistent quarterback, while Mayfield is a more mobile and aggressive quarterback. Both quarterbacks have their own strengths and weaknesses, but they are both capable of leading their teams to success.

2. Passing ability

Passing ability is one of the most important aspects of a quarterback's game. It is the ability to throw the football accurately and with velocity to receivers downfield. Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield are two quarterbacks who have both shown excellent passing ability throughout their careers.

Stafford is a pocket passer who is known for his strong arm and accuracy. He has a quick release and is able to make all the throws that a quarterback needs to make. Mayfield is also a pocket passer, but he is more mobile than Stafford and is able to extend plays with his legs. He also has a strong arm and is able to make accurate throws on the run.

Both Stafford and Mayfield have had success in the NFL due to their passing ability. Stafford has led the Lions to the playoffs three times, and Mayfield led the Browns to their first playoff appearance in over two decades in 2020. Both quarterbacks have also been selected to the Pro Bowl.

Passing ability is a crucial component of a quarterback's game. It allows quarterbacks to move the ball down the field and score points. Stafford and Mayfield are two quarterbacks who have both shown excellent passing ability throughout their careers. They are both capable of making all the throws that a quarterback needs to make, and they have both had success in the NFL.

3. Mobility

Mobility is a key attribute for quarterbacks in today's NFL. It allows them to extend plays, avoid sacks, and make plays outside of the pocket. Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield are two quarterbacks who have different levels of mobility, but both have shown that they can be effective in their own way.

Scrambling ability
Stafford is not known for his scrambling ability, but he has shown that he can be effective when he does run. He is not as fast as some other quarterbacks, but he is able to make plays with his feet when necessary. Mayfield, on the other hand, is one of the most mobile quarterbacks in the NFL. He is fast and agile, and he is able to make plays with his legs that most other quarterbacks cannot.
Pocket presence
Stafford has good pocket presence. He is able to feel pressure and move around the pocket to avoid sacks. He is also good at stepping up into the pocket to deliver a pass. Mayfield also has good pocket presence, but he is more likely to scramble out of the pocket when he feels pressure.
Running ability
Stafford is not a good runner, but he is able to pick up a few yards when necessary. Mayfield, on the other hand, is a good runner. He is able to gain yards on designed runs and scrambles.
Play style
Stafford is a more traditional pocket passer. He likes to stay in the pocket and deliver passes from there. Mayfield, on the other hand, is more of a dual-threat quarterback. He is able to make plays with his arm and his legs.

Ultimately, the mobility of Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield is a key factor in their success. Stafford is able to make plays with his arm and his legs, while Mayfield is able to make plays with his legs and his arm. Both quarterbacks have their own unique skill sets, and they are both able to be successful in their own way.

4. Leadership

Leadership is a crucial quality for any quarterback, as they are responsible for leading their team to success on and off the field. Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield are two quarterbacks who have both shown strong leadership skills throughout their careers.

Setting an example
Both Stafford and Mayfield are known for their hard work and dedication to the game of football. They set an example for their teammates by always giving 100% effort, both in practice and in games. They are also both vocal leaders who are not afraid to speak up and motivate their teammates.
Making tough decisions
Quarterbacks often have to make tough decisions under pressure. Stafford and Mayfield have both shown that they are capable of making the right decisions, even in the most difficult situations. They are both able to stay calm and collected under pressure, and they are not afraid to take risks when necessary.
Building relationships
Stafford and Mayfield have both built strong relationships with their teammates and coaches. They are both well-respected by their peers, and they are able to get the most out of their teammates. They are also both good communicators who are able to clearly convey their expectations to their teammates.
Leading by example
Stafford and Mayfield are both leaders by example. They are both hard workers who are dedicated to the game of football. They are also both good teammates who are always willing to help others. They are both role models for their teammates and for young people everywhere.

Leadership is a key quality for any quarterback, and Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield are two quarterbacks who have both shown strong leadership skills throughout their careers. They are both hard workers who are dedicated to the game of football, and they are both able to lead their teams to success.

5. Team success

Team success is a crucial component of evaluating the performance of quarterbacks Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield. While individual statistics and accolades are important, a quarterback's ultimate impact is measured by their ability to lead their team to wins and championships.

Both Stafford and Mayfield have experienced varying levels of team success throughout their careers. Stafford has led the Detroit Lions to the playoffs three times, but the team has never won a playoff game. Mayfield, on the other hand, led the Cleveland Browns to their first playoff appearance in over two decades in 2020, and he also won a playoff game that year.

There are a number of factors that contribute to team success, including the talent of the roster, the coaching staff, and the overall chemistry of the team. However, the quarterback is often seen as the most important piece of the puzzle. A good quarterback can elevate the play of his teammates and make a significant impact on the outcome of games.Stafford is a veteran quarterback who has a proven track record of success. He is a good passer with a strong arm and he is also able to make plays with his legs. Mayfield is a younger quarterback who has shown a lot of potential. He is a mobile quarterback who is able to make plays outside of the pocket. He also has a strong arm and he is able to make accurate throws on the run.Both Stafford and Mayfield are capable of leading their teams to success. However, the ultimate measure of their success will be whether or not they can win championships. Only time will tell if either quarterback can lead their team to the promised land.

In conclusion, team success is a key factor in evaluating the performance of quarterbacks Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield. While individual statistics and accolades are important, a quarterback's ultimate impact is measured by their ability to lead their team to wins and championships.

6. Individual accolades

Individual accolades are a recognition of a player's achievements and contributions to the sport of football. They can include awards, honors, and recognition from various organizations, media outlets, and fans. For quarterbacks like Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield, individual accolades serve as a testament to their talent, hard work, and dedication to the game.

There is a strong connection between individual accolades and the success of quarterbacks. Accolades often reflect a player's ability to perform at a high level consistently, which translates to team success. For instance, both Stafford and Mayfield have received Pro Bowl selections, which recognize the best players in the NFL at their respective positions. These accolades highlight their exceptional passing abilities, leadership skills, and contributions to their teams.

Furthermore, individual accolades can motivate quarterbacks to continue pushing their limits and striving for excellence. The recognition and appreciation they receive can fuel their desire to improve and maintain their high level of play. For example, Stafford's NFL Comeback Player of the Year award in 2011 served as a testament to his resilience and determination after overcoming a season-ending injury. Such accolades can boost a player's confidence and inspire them to reach even greater heights.

In conclusion, individual accolades play a significant role in the evaluation and recognition of quarterbacks like Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield. They are a reflection of their talent, hard work, and contributions to the sport. Accolades serve as motivators, mendorong players to maintain a high level of performance and strive for excellence. Understanding the connection between individual accolades and quarterback success is essential for appreciating the overall impact and legacy of these players in the NFL.

7. Contract

A contract is a legally binding agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of a relationship between two or more parties. In the context of professional sports, contracts are used to define the relationship between athletes and their teams. These contracts specify the length of the agreement, the player's salary and benefits, and various other terms and conditions.

Length
The length of a contract is typically determined by the player's age, experience, and performance. Stafford signed a five-year, $135 million contract extension with the Lions in 2017, while Mayfield signed a four-year, $32 million contract extension with the Browns in 2019.
Salary
The salary is the amount of money that a player is paid for their services. Stafford's salary is $27 million per year, while Mayfield's salary is $8.5 million per year.
Benefits
Benefits are the non-salary compensation that a player receives, such as health insurance, retirement benefits, and performance bonuses. Stafford's contract includes a signing bonus of $50 million, while Mayfield's contract includes a signing bonus of $10 million.
Other terms and conditions
Other terms and conditions that may be included in a contract include clauses relating to playing time, endorsements, and conduct. Stafford's contract includes a no-trade clause, while Mayfield's contract does not.

Contracts are an important part of the relationship between athletes and their teams. They provide both parties with certainty and protection. They also help to ensure that players are fairly compensated for their services.

8. Play style

The play style of a quarterback is a combination of their physical and mental attributes that influence how they approach the game. It encompasses their decision-making, arm strength, mobility, and leadership qualities. In the case of Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield, their contrasting play styles have shaped their respective careers and contributed to their unique identities as quarterbacks.

Decision-making
Decision-making is a critical aspect of a quarterback's play style. Stafford is known for his quick and decisive decision-making, often relying on his instincts and ability to read defenses pre-snap. Mayfield, on the other hand, is more improvisational, showcasing his willingness to take risks and extend plays with his mobility.
Arm strength
Arm strength is a physical attribute that significantly impacts a quarterback's play style. Stafford possesses one of the strongest arms in the NFL, enabling him to make deep and accurate throws with ease. Mayfield, while not possessing the same level of arm strength, compensates with his quick release and ability to generate velocity through his compact throwing motion.
Mobility
Mobility is becoming increasingly important in today's NFL, and both Stafford and Mayfield have distinct approaches in this regard. Stafford is a more traditional pocket passer, relying on his offensive line to provide him with protection and time to throw. Mayfield, on the other hand, is a highly mobile quarterback who uses his athleticism to extend plays, scramble for yards, and create scoring opportunities.
Leadership
Leadership is a vital intangible quality that influences a quarterback's play style and team dynamics. Stafford is a natural leader, known for his calm demeanor and ability to command respect from his teammates. Mayfield, with his fiery personality and energetic presence, brings a different type of leadership to the field, motivating and inspiring his teammates with his infectious enthusiasm.

In conclusion, the play styles of Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield are a reflection of their individual strengths and preferences. Stafford's decisive decision-making, strong arm, and leadership qualities make him a prototypical pocket passer. Mayfield's improvisational style, mobility, and infectious energy bring a unique and dynamic element to the quarterback position. Understanding and appreciating the nuances of their play styles helps us to fully grasp their impact on the game of football and their respective teams.

FAQs on Matt Stafford or Baker Mayfield

This section addresses frequently asked questions about Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield, providing clear and informative answers to common concerns or misconceptions.

Question 1: Which quarterback has a stronger arm, Matt Stafford or Baker Mayfield?

Answer: Matt Stafford is widely recognized for possessing one of the strongest arms in the NFL, allowing him to make deep and accurate throws with relative ease.

Question 2: Who is more mobile, Stafford or Mayfield?

Answer: Baker Mayfield is known for his exceptional mobility and athleticism. He frequently uses his agility to extend plays, scramble for yards, and create scoring opportunities.

Question 3: Which quarterback has a better winning percentage?

Answer: Matt Stafford holds a higher winning percentage than Baker Mayfield. Throughout his career, Stafford has led his teams to more victories, including several playoff appearances.

Question 4: Who has received more individual accolades?

Answer: Matt Stafford has accumulated more individual accolades than Baker Mayfield. Stafford has been selected to the Pro Bowl multiple times and holds the NFL record for most passing yards in a single season.

Question 5: Which quarterback is a better leader?

Answer: Both Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield are regarded as strong leaders. Stafford is known for his calm demeanor and ability to command respect, while Mayfield brings infectious energy and motivation to his team.

Summary: Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield possess distinct strengths and play styles. Stafford excels as a pocket passer with a powerful arm and proven leadership skills. Mayfield brings mobility, improvisation, and a fiery spirit to the quarterback position. Understanding their individual attributes and approaches helps us appreciate their contributions to the game of football.

Transition: For further insights into the careers and achievements of Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield, explore the following sections of this comprehensive article.

Conclusion

In exploring the careers of Matt Stafford and Baker Mayfield, it becomes evident that both quarterbacks have established themselves as formidable forces in the NFL. Stafford, with his exceptional arm strength and leadership qualities, has led his teams to multiple playoff appearances. Mayfield, with his mobility, improvisational style, and infectious energy, has brought a dynamic element to the quarterback position.

The ongoing debate of "Matt Stafford or Baker Mayfield" serves as a reminder that there is no definitive answer when comparing two highly skilled players. Each quarterback possesses unique strengths and play styles that contribute to their respective teams' successes. Ultimately, their individual journeys and contributions to the sport of football will continue to captivate and inspire fans for years to come.