Malcolm Smith on Fans in Stands: A Little Critical at Times, But Support and Love is There

Later in the interview, Smith was asked specifically about fans booing the Browns quarterback specifically and his reaction.

"I mean it hurts, because he's obviously laying everything he has out for the city of Cleveland and trying to put this team to where we need to be. So, I think it's probably not directed in the right way. I mean, I can understand their frustration. They want us to play to our talent level, but the reality is that the NFL is very difficult and injuries are a huge part of it. I commend him for definitely battling through and he's trying to give our team the best shot to win. And as long as that's the top of mind, I respect it."

Rome followed up by asking if Smith has any issue with anything Mayfield has done or said.

No, because at the end of the day, I think for us to be successful, he's got to be successful and he's going to be at the helm of us doing - as much as I love Case Keenum, it's pretty clear that, you know, it's Baker's team as far as the organization goes. You know, when we all signed up, we expected him to be our quarterback, so we're gonna ride with him. And I appreciate the effort he puts in, the time he puts in, the time he puts in the training room just to get out there on the practice field or in the games is a lot, so gotta respect it.

Smith also discussed why he chose to re-sign with the Browns this offseason when he had other offers and the state of the team as they prepare to take on the Baltimore Ravens twice over the next three weeks. He also talked about what he's been doing to try to keep himself healthier to extend his career and about his alma mater USC and their future.