Bucs GM and Baker Mayfield connect over being 'counted out'

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers continue to lean into a specific identity, and recent comments from general manager Jason Licht show how that mindset connects directly to quarterback Baker Mayfield. Speaking in the team’s latest quote sheet, Licht pointed to a shared mentality between himself and Mayfield, both having gone through stretches in their careers where they were counted out or overlooked. That perspective shows up in how this team is built and why Mayfield has been such a natural fit since arriving in Tampa Bay.

What strengthens that connection is the production that followed. Since taking over as the Buccaneers starter, Mayfield has delivered at a high level, throwing for 4,731 yards and 34 touchdowns in 2023 before taking another step in 2024 with 4,685 yards and 43 touchdowns. Even in 2025, with some natural regression, he still produced 3,693 yards and 26 touchdowns while maintaining a steady presence in the offense, but also missed time and did not play at 100% due to an injured AC joint in the middle of 2025.

For Tampa Bay, this isn’t buying into a personality; it’s about pairing that mindset with a player who will provide consistent output. Mayfield’s path hasn’t been clean, but that edge has translated into results and stability at a position the franchise needed to figure out. At this point, the connection goes beyond narrative.

The Buccaneers see Mayfield as part of their identity, and when production and mentality align like this, it usually leads to long-term commitment. This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Bucs GM Jason Licht and Baker Mayfield connect over one thing