For months Darnold was expected to go first overall.
If you have the second pick in the draft, and the expected best QB in the draft doesn't go first overall, doesn't the value of your pick significantly increase?
I would surely think so.
Or put differently if we hadn't traded for the 3rd pick from the Colts until the day if the draft. Wouldn't you be willing to have given up more for the 3rd pick once Darnold was actually available, instead of when you thought you might be getting the 2nd or 3rd best QB? The Browns taking Mayfield changed everything
Honestly, it sounds like the Browns weren't that into Darnold, ever. The Allen rumors a while back, and now of course the fact Baker was the guy, and it was significantly rumored for 2-3 days. I have to believe teams were calling and saying if Sam is there, we will give you this...
Also, if Gettleman had decided he has a future HOF player (which he apparently does) in Barkley in his lap, you need literally the world to change his mind.