Baker Mayfield is going to bat for his new running back, Kareem Hunt -- saying he thinks Hunt is a "great kid" ... and when it comes to his violent past, the QB says, "Mistakes happen."
Hunt made his first appearance at Cleveland Browns facility Wednesday -- taking part in voluntary team workouts -- and Baker, along with head coach Freddie Kitchens, were singing his praises.
"Just being around him, I think he's a great kid," Baker said ... "Ya know, mistakes happen. I can speak from personal experience.