Baker Mayfield’s contract discussions with the Buccaneers are not progressing.

Concerns Arise for the Buccaneers

There could be complications brewing in Tampa Bay. During a youth football camp on Friday, quarterback Baker Mayfield shared a rather intriguing update about his contract negotiations with the team.

“We appreciate the community, and it feels great to be here. They’ve welcomed us, and we genuinely enjoy it here—we’ll be raising our kids in this area. But regarding the contract, well, it’s in the early stages of negotiations, but it’s not anywhere close to what we anticipated,” Mayfield commented. He also added, “I’d like to remain here long-term, but that’s not a certainty right now. Still, I’m under contract until 2026.”

Addressing his role within the team, he emphasized, “The guys in the locker room and the staff know I’m committed. My main goal is to do everything possible to help us win a Super Bowl—that’s my top priority. Everything else? Well, that should work itself out.”

At 31 years old, Mayfield is finishing up the last year of a three-year, $100 million deal he signed back in March 2024.

If he doesn’t finalize a new contract ahead of training camp, he mentioned, “I plan to play the last year of my contract. We can revisit negotiations after the season.” He expressed a sense of urgency, stating, “I absolutely want to secure a long-term deal, but I made it clear that I need it wrapped up by the time training camp kicks off. The actual signing isn’t in my hands, so hopefully, we can wrap it up beforehand—but if not, we’ll still have a solid year.”

Mayfield, who was the top pick overall in the 2018 draft from the University of Oklahoma, has experienced quite a rollercoaster career.

He had some thrilling moments with the Browns, notably guiding them to their first playoff appearance in 18 years in 2020. Yet, a rough patch in 2021 led the team to shift gears and ultimately trade him to the Panthers.

Signing with Tampa Bay was seen as a significant move, especially after Tom Brady’s departure. Brady had thrown 10 touchdown passes and eight interceptions during a tumultuous 2022 season but still secured seven championships in 2023.

Though Mayfield has struggled to achieve playoff success—only one win in three years—he remained productive, achieving 95 touchdowns over 51 games with the Buccaneers.

Last season started with Mayfield as an MVP hopeful, leading Tampa Bay to a promising 6-2 record, but he later stumbled, concluding the year with an 8-9 record and missing out on the playoffs.

Next season promises to be challenging for the former Heisman Trophy winner, especially with legendary receiver Mike Evans moving to the 49ers in free agency.