Buccaneers Set to Offer Major Extension to Beloved Baker Mayfield
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are considering a significant contract extension for quarterback Baker Mayfield, following a challenging season. Despite setbacks, Mayfield’s performance positions him for a lucrative deal. In the 2023-2024 season, he threw for 3,693 yards, with 26 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. These statistics, while commendable, marked the lowest output of his time with the Buccaneers.
Baker Mayfield’s Performance and Injuries
Mayfield started the season strong, leading the Buccaneers to a 6-2 record. However, his performance declined as he suffered multiple injuries. Throughout the season, he endured issues with his foot, toe, biceps, knee, oblique, and shoulder. A particular concern was an injury to his non-throwing shoulder. This injury impacted his game significantly, as he transitioned from being an early MVP candidate to a player who threw just 10 touchdowns against nine interceptions in the latter half of the season. In contrast, he achieved 16 touchdowns and only two interceptions in the first half.
Insights from Teammates
Former teammate Lavonte David attributed Mayfield’s struggles to the series of injuries he endured during the season. The Buccaneers faced their own disappointments, as they were unable to secure the NFC South title or reach the playoffs, marking a disappointing outcome for the 2025 season.
Contract Negotiations on the Horizon
Mayfield’s current contract averages $33.3 million per year, ranking him 16th in the league. This figure falls short compared to the ten quarterbacks earning over $50 million annually. Buccaneers co-owner Joel Glazer acknowledged the importance of contract planning and deferred to general manager Jason Licht regarding any decisions on Mayfield’s future.
- Yearly average of $33.3 million ranks 16th in the league.
- Ten quarterbacks currently earn over $50 million annually.
- Mayfield’s 2023 statistics: 3,693 yards, 26 touchdowns, 11 interceptions.
- Started season with a strong 6-2 record.
Mayfield’s Journey in the NFL
Baker Mayfield was selected first overall in the 2018 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns. After a trade to the Carolina Panthers before the 2022 season, his time there was short-lived and unsuccessful. He briefly joined the Los Angeles Rams before signing a one-year contract with the Buccaneers after Tom Brady’s retirement. In 2023, Mayfield surpassed 4,000 passing yards for the first time in his career, leading to discussions about a multi-year contract extension.
Looking Ahead
As the Buccaneers weigh their options, it seems likely that Mayfield is heading toward another promising extension. Joel Glazer emphasized the importance of the quarterback position, noting that high-performing quarterbacks often lead successful teams.
