Baker Mayfield's Future with Buccaneers Hangs in the Balance After Disappointing Season
Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht hinted at a potential contract extension for quarterback Baker Mayfield at the start of training camp last July. With a contract restructure last April creating $14.4 million in salary cap space for 2025, extending Mayfield seemed like a priority. However, the 2025 season proved disappointing for both Mayfield and the Buccaneers, who finished with an 8-9 record, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2019. After starting strong with a 6-2 record, the team faltered, going 2-7 post-bye week. Mayfield's performance dropped significantly, contributing to his worst season since joining the Buccaneers, with lows in completion percentage, passing yards, and passer rating. An injury to his non-throwing shoulder against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 12 played a role in his decline. Despite these setbacks, Licht remains optimistic about Mayfield's future, stating, "Everything's on the table right now," during the NFL Scouting Combine. He emphasized that plans revolve around Mayfield, who is entering the final year of a three-year, $100 million contract. Mayfield might see Daniel Jones' recent two-year, $88 million contract with the Indianapolis Colts as a benchmark for his negotiations. With 95 touchdown passes and 12,237 passing yards over the last three seasons, Mayfield's durability stands out, as he is one of only three quarterbacks to have not missed a game during that span. The future remains uncertain; whether Mayfield secures an extension or plays out his contract will depend on his demands and performance. The Buccaneers must weigh the risks of waiting to negotiate, as the quarterback market continues to evolve.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-03-18