Mayfield thanks city of Cleveland after Browns reportedly meet with Watson

Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield fueled speculation about his future after thanking the city of Cleveland on social media Tuesday.

Mayfield posted his message hours after the Browns reportedly met with Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson, who's been looking for a trade destination this offseason.

"The past four years have been nothing short of truly life-changing since I heard my name called in the draft to go to Cleveland," Mayfield wrote. "This is not a message with hidden meaning. This is strictly to thank the city of Cleveland for embracing my family and me. We have made many memories and shared growing in this process through all the ups and downs.

"I have no clue what happens next, which is the meaning behind the silence I have had during the duration of this process. I can only control what I can, which is trusting in God's plan throughout this process.

"I have given this franchise everything I have. ... And that will not change wherever I take my next snap. Whatever happens, I just want to say thank you to the fans who truly embraced who I am and the mentality that aligned so well with this city's hard-working people."

The Browns' reported interest in Watson came as a surprise this year. General manager Andrew Berry said earlier this offseason that he fully expects Mayfield to be the team's starter in 2022.

Mayfield hasn't lived up to expectations since being selected first overall in 2018. He helped the Browns make the playoffs in 2020 after tossing 26 touchdowns to eight interceptions but took a step backward last year. The Oklahoma product finished the 2021 campaign with only 17 touchdowns against 13 interceptions while posting a 6-8 record.

Overall, Mayfield is 29-30 as a starter.

Watson reportedly has also met with the New Orleans Saints and Carolina Panthers. The 26-year-old, who has a no-trade clause in his contract, is also expected to speak with the Atlanta Falcons on Wednesday.