Baker Mayfield Teases Former Teammate Mark Andrews Ahead of NFL Clash

TAMPA, Fla. — The playful banter between football players Baker Mayfield and Mark Andrews took center stage ahead of their teams’ highly anticipated “Monday Night Football” matchup. Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, known for his charismatic and cheeky demeanor, had a lighthearted dig at former Oklahoma Sooners teammate, Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews, during a media interaction on Thursday.

Mayfield, referencing the pair’s past as college teammates, remarked, “Even though Mark and I are best friends, him and I don’t talk in season. He’s a weirdo. He can’t exactly separate friendship and football, so he struggles with that on a year-to-year basis.” The comments, delivered jokingly, were met with laughter from a room full of reporters.

The duo’s camaraderie traces back to their successful stint at the University of Oklahoma, where Mayfield secured the 2017 Heisman Trophy, and Andrews won the John Mackey Award for the best tight end in college football. Despite their achievements, Mayfield humorously bemoaned the lack of communication from Andrews, even highlighting that “that guy was in my wedding and won’t talk to me. It hurts my feelings.”

Adding to his jest, Mayfield hypothesized that a “very serious girlfriend” might be influencing Andrews’ current demeanor, referring to social media ambassador Elena Yates, whom Andrews has reportedly been dating since summer 2023. “Some people think he’s gone soft. I’m not one of those people, but the people are murmuring. There’s whispers out there,” Mayfield stated with a straight face.

Mark Andrews, who has been a notable presence in the NFL and a three-time Pro Bowler, might be experiencing a quieter season with 13 receptions for 186 yards and one touchdown so far. Nevertheless, he maintains his position as a vital asset to the Ravens, who currently boast a 4-2 record.

Baker Mayfield, revitalized with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, has been enjoying a productive season, completing 70.9 percent of his passes for 1,489 yards, and leading the league with 15 touchdowns against five interceptions. The upcoming clash between the Buccaneers and the Ravens, both with identical 4-2 records, promises a riveting encounter.