Baker Mayfield’s Victory Against the Jets

Baker Mayfield noted that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers began the 2025 NFL season with a perfect 3-0 record. However, the recent win against the New York Jets seemed particularly significant for him.

In a thrilling game, Mayfield directed his team down the field, setting up Chase McLaughlin for a 36-yard field goal that sealed a 29-27 victory. This came after the Jets’ linebacker, Will McDonald IV, had blocked a previous field goal attempt and scored a touchdown to give New York the lead.

Reflecting on the game, Mayfield emphasized the personal nature of the win, attributing some of his motivation to Jets defensive coordinator Steve Wilkes, who had cut him when they were both with the Carolina Panthers. “I loved it,” he remarked, mentioning the emotional stakes. “Their defensive coordinator was the one who let me go in Carolina, so today felt personal.”

Wilkes had been the Panthers’ head coach when they decided to release Mayfield mid-season in 2022. He signed with the Los Angeles Rams just a day later and put together solid performances throughout the rest of the season. Ultimately, the Buccaneers brought him on board in 2023 after Tom Brady’s retirement, where he competed with Kyle Trask for the starting position. Mayfield had a breakout first season, earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2024 and surpassing 4,000 passing yards both years.

Now, with the Buccaneers leading the league in the early weeks of the season, Mayfield’s contributions have been vital. He completed 29 passes for 248 yards, including a touchdown to Mike Evans, reflecting his crucial role on the team.