Former NFL cornerback Richard Sherman praised Baker Mayfield’s competitive edge, highlighting the quarterback’s “petty” nature as a positive trait. His comments mark a notable shift from their past conflicts dating back to 2019.

During Thursday’s appearance on Kay Adams’ “Up & Adams” show, Sherman, a five-time Pro Bowler, expressed his appreciation for Mayfield’s competitive mindset. The timing of his comments coincides with Mayfield’s career renaissance in Tampa Bay.

“I do, I like a petty everything. I’m here for pettiness,” Sherman said in response to Adams’ question about appreciating a petty quarterback.

He added that Mayfield would likely use their past history as motivation, saying:

“I’m sure Baker knows the history and Baker’s petty in that way. And I like that about him.”

Their relationship made headlines in October 2019 when Sherman accused Baker Mayfield of snubbing him during a pregame handshake. This was before a 49ers-Browns game. Mayfield was the QB for the Browns then. Though video evidence later contradicted Sherman’s initial claim, the incident exemplified their complicated dynamic.

Baker Mayfield’s journey from keeping tabs on criticism to $100 million signee

Baker Mayfield’s approach to handling criticism has evolved significantly. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, he revealed his departure from social media engagement.

“I used to keep a lot of notes and try to prove people wrong but that’s not the way to go about life,” Mayfield said.

The change has paid dividends. Mayfield posted career-best numbers in 2024, throwing 4,500 yards and 41 touchdowns. His performance helped secure back-to-back NFC South titles for the Buccaneers. He transformed from a quarterback nearly out of the league to signing a three-year, $100 million contract.

“You gotta believe in yourself, you gotta move on, play for each other,” Mayfield said at the press conference.

Baker Mayfield’s focus now centers on playoff success, as the Buccaneers prepare to host the Commanders in their wild-card matchup.