Baker Mayfield, the offensive MVP of the Pro Bowl, could potentially leave the Tampa Bay Buccaneers despite their recent acquisition of an offensive coordinator with Mayfield’s input. According to SiriusXM NFL Radio co-host Amber Theoharis, who spoke with Mayfield at the Pro Bowl, Mayfield is eager to explore his market value in free agency. This news comes just after the Buccaneers hired Liam Coen as their offensive coordinator, whom Mayfield played with during a short stint with the Los Angeles Rams in 2022.
There is speculation that the Buccaneers will not let Mayfield leave in free agency. It is suggested that Mayfield may want the team to place the franchise tag on him, which would prevent him from becoming a free agent. This move would start Mayfield’s negotiating bar at $35 million per season, the expected salary for tagged quarterbacks in 2024, according to JoeBucsFan.com.
Currently, Spotrac projects Mayfield to earn an average of $27.1 million annually or sign a 4-year, $108.5 million deal. In 2023, Mayfield played on a 1-year, $4 million deal with the Buccaneers after transitioning between three teams in 2022.
In order to retain Mayfield, the Buccaneers will also need to re-sign wide receiver Mike Evans. Mayfield expressed his admiration for Evans, stating, “Mike’s a stud. I was lucky to have him.” Evans played a significant role in Mayfield’s career year, contributing 79 catches for 1,255 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2023. Mayfield himself threw for 4,044 yards and 28 touchdowns with only 10 interceptions.
Reflecting on his experience at the Pro Bowl, Mayfield expressed gratitude and honor. He started the game strong with a touchdown pass to Ceedee Lamb of the Dallas Cowboys. Overall, Mayfield completed 9 out of 13 passes for 102 yards and two touchdowns. He enjoyed watching his teammates make plays and had a great time participating in the game.
In conclusion, Mayfield’s future with the Buccaneers remains uncertain as he explores his options in free agency. The team will need to consider his market value and the importance of re-signing key players like Mike Evans to retain Mayfield’s services.
Mayfield and offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs were the only Buccaneers at the Pro Bowl, but they made the most of it.
In a recent interview, Wirfs jokingly expressed his desire for Mayfield to pass him the ball during the game. Although it didn’t happen, this playful banter highlights the close friendship between the two Buccaneers stars.
When asked about their bond, Mayfield revealed that their friendship formed almost instantly. He compared it to a scene from the movie “Step Brothers,” where two characters become best friends in an instant.
Matthew Davis, an NFL reporter, covers this story.
