After Kevin Stefanski was hired by the Atlanta Falcons, rivals in the NFC South, Baker Mayfield initially made sharp remarks about his former head coach. These comments, which criticized Stefanski’s decision to bring in Deshaun Watson as Mayfield’s replacement in Cleveland, sparked significant attention on social media. However, Mayfield has recently tempered his tone regarding the tension that arose between them.
Mayfield’s earlier posts on X were pointed, suggesting frustration with how his departure from Cleveland was handled. In one tweet, he wrote,
“Failed is quite the reach pal. Still waiting on a text/call from him after I got shipped off like a piece of garbage. Can’t wait to see you twice a year, Coach.”
This message highlighted the perceived coldness in their professional split and implied a brewing rivalry as they prepare to meet twice per season.
Addressing the Split with Stefanski in Cleveland
Following the publicized fallout, which caught the attention of both fans and media, Mayfield sought to clarify his feelings. In an interview with Sports Illustrated, he downplayed the conflict, emphasizing the natural competitiveness that exists between former colleagues now on opposing teams.
“There’s stuff there, but it’s not like it’s beef,”
Mayfield explained.
“We’ve worked together, anytime you know somebody, you want to beat them, whether it’s a good or bad relationship… Not a revenge game of a sense of Atlanta, but we lost the division for the first time since four or five years, so, any divisional game will be a revenge game, I guess.”
Despite Mayfield’s acknowledgment of rivalry, it’s important to note his historical record against the Falcons is below .500. Still, his career revival with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after a difficult departure from Cleveland clearly contributes to his current confidence. This context makes his remarks more understandable and shifts the narrative away from bitterness toward a competitive mindset.
Developing a Renewed Rivalry in the NFC South
Both Mayfield and Stefanski appear focused on their current situations and ambitions. Mayfield has spent seven years journeying through the league before landing a more stable role with the Buccaneers, while Stefanski is working to rebuild his coaching career with a fresh start in Atlanta.
“Playing quarterback is difficult but it’s all about the right fit,”
Mayfield said when discussing his place in the NFL.
“The people you are surrounded with, the staff, the organization then obviously giving you all the resources you need to have success.”
The offseason provides time for these remarks to settle ahead of the Buccaneers’ upcoming games against the Falcons, which could decisively influence the NFC South standings. This emerging rivalry promises to be tested on the field rather than in public disputes.
Though the competitive tension remains, there is undeniable respect between player and coach. Now pursuing their individual paths, Mayfield and Stefanski seem prepared to let their performances shape the dialogue moving forward.
For the moment, Mayfield appears willing to ease any personal conflict, but the true measure of their dynamic will unfold when their teams meet during the next NFL season.
Failed is quite the reach pal. Still waiting on a text/call from him after I got shipped off like a piece of garbage. Can’t wait to see you twice a year, Coach. https://t.co/jUUsYkvlOC
— Baker Mayfield (@bakermayfield) January 20, 2026
