When will Buccaneers Extend Mayfield and at What Cost?
With Baker Mayfield’s bargain contract nearing its end, Tampa Bay faces a skyrocketing market. Discover why securing their franchise quarterback now is essential to avoiding a costly distraction.
The number one priority for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers right now should be finalizing a contract extension for quarterback Baker Mayfield, who is entering the final year of the 3-year, $100 million contract signed on March 10, 2024. That contract turned out to be a bargain for the Bucs, as Mayfield has played at a high level in Tampa since taking over for Tom Brady in 2023. The former top overall pick has found a home in Tampa after bouncing around the league following his unceremonious split with the Cleveland Browns.
With Mayfield's contract expiring, the Bucs must now open the checkbook to retain their quarterback. When Will Mayfield's Extension Get Done? Going into the season without a new contract will undoubtedly become a distraction for both the player and the team, even if neither party will admit it.
GM Jason Licht has publicly expressed his desire to get a deal done, telling The Drive with TKras, "Baker is at the forefront of our mind at all times. All of our plans revolve around Baker. That's something that we'll get to at some point.
I have had a lot of discussions with Baker about the team. We texted during the draft after some of the picks. I know he was excited about the players that we took.