Baker Mayfield halted contract negotiations with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as his self-imposed deadline of July 28 passed without a new deal. Shortly after, reports emerged regarding the discussions.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler revealed that the Buccaneers had proposed a two-year extension exceeding $100 million, but Mayfield sought a longer commitment due to perceived insufficient guarantees. This demand aligns with market trends, where only Matthew Stafford has signed a deal averaging over $50 million per year with fewer than four new years.

On August 19, Adam Schefter highlighted that the contract length was a key issue for Mayfield, who could rank among the NFL's five highest-paid quarterbacks with the Buccaneers' offer. Additionally, Mayfield’s camp countered with their own two-year proposal before negotiations stalled.

Currently, Mayfield is in the final year of a three-year, $100 million contract, earning an average of $33.3 million per year. His salary cap number for 2026 stands at $39.975 million, which includes incentives that have been misreported.

The Buccaneers face pressure to revisit negotiations before their season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals on September 13. Former coach Jon Gruden suggested that the two sides are closer than perceived.

To secure Mayfield, the Buccaneers might consider structuring the deal with:

• Signing bonus: $27.5 million
• Guaranteed money: $110 million
• Average per year: $50 million
• Maximum average per year: $57.5 million

While Mayfield's cash flow percentages are slightly lower than other top contracts, his entire $45 million salary for 2028 becomes fully guaranteed next March. The need for an extension will grow as the quarterback market evolves, especially if Mayfield performs well this season.