This question is a tough call. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a history of almost never granting second contracts to quarterbacks, and this approach hasn’t always served the franchise well. However, they also haven’t had many quarterbacks who played well enough to merit a second contract throughout their history.
Then we have Baker Mayfield. He arrived on a low-risk, prove-it deal after being passed around three franchises in one season, leaving him with little leverage. The Bucs and Baker needed each other.
In his time with the Bucs, Baker has performed admirably. Under Offensive Coordinator Dave Canales, his first year was solid—not spectacular, but effective. Operating within Canales’ run-first scheme, Baker capitalized on opportunities when they arose. In 2024, he truly shone under the guidance of Liam Coen. Coen’s play-calling provided Baker with quick, straightforward reads and opened up space in the running game, resulting in a top-five offense. At times, Baker even looked like a potential MVP.
But the question remains: Was this success due to Baker’s talent or Coen’s coaching? Is it akin to how Kyle Shanahan can achieve success with nearly any quarterback in his system (think Brock Purdy and Mac Jones), or how Sean McVay maximized the abilities of Jared Goff and Matthew Stafford? Coaching can significantly impact the performance of mid-tier quarterbacks. Unlike elite talents like Patrick Mahomes or Josh Allen, who can succeed independently of coaching, many quarterbacks thrive under the right system.
The challenge lies in determining whether Baker fits into that group. Do the Bucs believe he can continue to perform at a high level, or is he simply benefiting from a favorable coaching situation? His last 9 games last year were less than desirable. He was inaccurate and ineffective. It was so bad that he better have been playing with injuries. If not, what would be the excuse.
I like Baker, the player. He’s gritty, plays with a chip on his shoulder, and will die for his teammates. How can you complain about that? But I’d like to see him play with a lot more success in the pocket this year. If he can do that, then he’d be worth a top 15 salary.
If he can do that, then he’d be worth a top 15 salary.
Look at his numbers over the last 3 years.
He's already well within Top-15 territory.
@donkey_hunter if he’ll take top 15 qb money then let’s do it. If he’s asking for top 5, wait.
This has been discussed in other threads and other forums. Nothing said by fans for or against extending Mayfield is going to change the plans of the Bucs. I think I will just wait and see what the Bucs do.