Baker Mayfield was fined a couple of weeks ago for criticizing the officials in the Cleveland Browns' game against the Seattle Seahawks. However, Mayfield will not be fined for doubling-down on his stance of the poor officiating in the NFL.

“I would not say it was complaining when it was blatantly obvious,” Mayfield said last Wednesday. “I would say that is just stating facts. Freedom of speech, I thought that is OK, but I get fined for it. That is the league. That is what they do. They fine you for some ridiculous things. It is just how it is. There is a reason everybody is talking about it. It is not just me. It goes for every team. With how our team is, we are not going to get a lot of calls and we know that. Especially going into this week, there is no time to worry about it and no time to stress about it. Just play our game. . . .

“I knew I was going to get fined, but it needs to be said. People have to be held accountable for their job. When it affects my job, it sucks because it is not in my control.”

This season, the NFL has taken a no-tolerance policy when it comes to players or coaches condemning officials. In Week 6, Mayfield, Clay Matthews, and Tracy Walker were all fined for their comments on the referees.

Related NewsArticle continues below
Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) throws a pass during rookie minicamp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus.
Shedeur Sanders’ message to haters trying to start Browns QB feud
Featured image Shedeur Sanders Dillon Gabriel
ESPN projects Browns quarterback Dillon Gabriel to put up better stats than Shedeur Sanders as rookie
Michigan legend Charles Woodson waves at fans during warmup at the spring game at Michigan Stadium
Charles Woodson approved as limited partner in Browns ownership group

By fining the players and coaches, it gives the notion that the NFL is attempting to cover-up for the official's mistakes. Instead of fining them, the NFL should shift their focus on getting their referees on the same page.

It is well-known that the officiating this season has been far from consistent and Mayfield isn't afraid to say what everyone is thinking. Luckily for the second-year quarterback won't lose any more money for berating the officials for the second time.