Browns DC Wilks endorses Mayfield, says Cleveland was top choice

Although Steve Wilks is now in charge of the Cleveland Browns' defense, it was an offensive player who helped draw his attention to the organization.

Wilks was introduced as the Browns' new defensive coordinator Thursday and provided quarterback Baker Mayfield with a vote of confidence.

"You can’t win in this league if you don’t have a quarterback and we have a quarterback," Wilks said, according to Dan Labbe of Cleveland.com.

Wilks, who previously served as the Arizona Cardinals head coach before being fired on Dec. 31, made it clear the Browns were his top choice.

"I scheduled this (interview) first because this is where I want to be," Wilks said.

Prior to being named head coach of the Cardinals, Wilks worked as the assistant head coach and defensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers.

Mayfield shone during his rookie season, throwing for 27 touchdowns against 14 interceptions over 13 starts, and it appears he made a strong impression on coaches across the board.