Quarterback Baker Mayfield Inks Lucrative Extension with Buccaneers
TAMPA, Fla. — In a move that solidifies their future under center, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have agreed to a new three-year, $100 million contract extension with quarterback Baker Mayfield, a person with knowledge of the deal confirmed on Saturday.
The new pact, which could be worth up to $115 million with incentives, includes $50 million guaranteed for Mayfield. It represents a substantial payday and endorsement from the Buccaneers after the 28-year-old resurrected his career with a standout 2023 season.
“I wanted a chance to come back,” Mayfield told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. “I love Coach Bowles and the staff. I’m happy to be here, and I want to win more in the postseason.”
Mayfield arrived in Tampa last spring on a one-year, $4 million prove-it deal after flaming out with the Carolina Panthers in 2022. But he made the most of his opportunity, posting stellar numbers while leading the Buccaneers to their fourth consecutive playoff appearance.
In 17 games, the former No. 1 overall draft pick finished ninth in the NFL in passing yards (4,044) and seventh in touchdown passes (28). More importantly, he developed excellent chemistry with star wideout Mike Evans, who tied for the league lead with 13 receiving touchdowns.
“Me and Baker, we played one season together and I feel like we can build on what we did last year,” the five-time Pro Bowler said after recently agreeing to his own two-year, $52 million extension in Tampa. “Whoever the quarterback is, he’s an NFL quarterback. But me and Baker, we have a really good connection. I think he’s an elite quarterback.”
For the Buccaneers, locking up Mayfield with a long-term deal provides security at the all-important quarterback position while allowing them to allocate resources elsewhere to bolster the roster. Mayfield proved himself worthy after an up-and-down start to his career in Cleveland and Carolina.
The 2017 Heisman Trophy winner was the top overall pick by the Browns in 2018 after a prolific collegiate career at Oklahoma. While he helped Cleveland snap its long playoff drought in 2020, inconsistent play and an alleged off-field antics ultimately led to his departure after the 2021 campaign.
Mayfield joined Carolina in 2022 but appeared in just seven games while dealing with injuries and struggles with the Panthers’ anemic offense. That set the stage for his career resurrection in Tampa as he capitalized on a one-year opportunity.
Now with long-term financial security, Mayfield faces the challenge of building upon last season’s success alongside Evans and the Buccaneers’ offensive nucleus. The team is optimistic that Coach Todd Bowles’ offense can continue thriving with an in-prime Mayfield leading the charge.
Both player and franchise are making a substantial commitment, with Mayfield earning the lucrative payday he gambled on himself to achieve. For the Buccaneers, securing their quarterback allows them to be consistent contenders in the rugged NFC South.
The deal cements Tampa as Mayfield‘s long-awaited landing spot after his rocky start to his pro career. By seizing his chance in 2023, the Texas native has positioned himself for sustained success and the opportunity to lead an offensive juggernaut moving forward.
