Buccaneers, Baker Mayfield Could Land Massive Quarterback Contract Deal

Baker Mayfield wants to stay in Tampa Bay.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers might have been able to secure their quarterback of the future. After Tom Brady retired in 2023 ahead of the last NFL season, the Buccaneers' quarterback situation was uncertain. They signed Baker Mayfield on a bargain of a contract, and he led the team to a 9-8 record and a playoff appearance. 

Mayfield had such an impressive season that he's going to be able to prolong his career as a starting quarterback as he posted 4,044 passing yards and 28 passing touchdowns to his ten interceptions. It was a career year for Mayfield after a couple of weird years with the Cleveland Browns and then being traded to the Carolina Panthers. 

Ian Rapoport reported that there is mutual interest between Mayfield and the Buccaneers for a reunion next season after the two parties worked so well together this season.

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"He has resurrected his career with the Bucs, discarded by the Panthers, went to the Rams, had a moment there. [He] signed a one-year prove-it deal with the Bucs and I think it's fair to say nobody really knew what they were getting," Rapoport said. 

It's safe to say things worked out as the Buccaneers have a more established culture while showing their capabilities to win big games and take care of business. 

"Here's where they are now -- in the playoffs," Rapoport continued. "My understanding is the Bucs want Baker Mayfield back next year. He wants to be back as well, potentially cash in on a real, big-time quarterback deal. They also have the franchise tag as an option as well, but hopefully they will work that out."

It's no surprise the two sides want to continue their partnership. Mayfield would be returning the gift to the Buccaneers after the team gave him the perfect opportunity to prove himself and show what he has left in the tank. For the Buccaneers, they can assess other needs on the roster without struggling to find a quarterback as he provides quality insurance in that department. 

Rapoport continued in his reporting to say that Mayfield's emergence has helped Buccaneers offensive coordinator Dave Canales garner interest as a potential head coach as he could find himself a bigger role with another franchise.

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