Baker Mayfield cashes in with a $40M extension from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after a 41-TD 2024 season, solidifying his role as the franchise leader.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
One year ago, the question was whether Baker Mayfield could salvage his career. Today, the question is answered. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have officially handed the keys to the franchise to Mayfield, signing the resurgent quarterback to a $40 million extension for the 2026 season. It's a massive vote of confidence after a career-best 2024 campaign that saw him silence all doubters and lead the Bucs back to the playoffs.
From first overall pick to waiver wire survivor to franchise leader, Baker Mayfield's journey culminated in a career-best 4,500 yards and 41 touchdowns in 2024, earning him a massive extension.
Let's be clear: this wasn't a gift. Baker Mayfield earned every single penny of his new $40 million extension. After a spectacular 2024 season where he threw for 4,500 yards and a staggering 41 touchdowns, GM Jason Licht made it clear that Mayfield is their guy for the foreseeable future. The deal provides stability at the most crucial position, something the Bucs haven't had since Tom Brady's departure. For Mayfield, it's the ultimate validation of a tumultuous career, proving his leadership and grit are the real deal. In camp, his chemistry with Mike Evans is already on full display, with the two connecting on a beautiful pass over the middle, a sight fans hope to see all season.
The ink was barely dry on Mayfield's contract when a dark cloud rolled over training camp. The team confirmed the devastating news that fourth-round rookie linebacker David Walker suffered a torn ACL and will miss the entire 2025 season. It's a brutal blow for the young player and a significant hit to the team's linebacker depth behind starters Haason Reddick and Yaya Diaby. The bad news doesn't stop there. Key contributors Cade Otton (hamstring) and rookie corner Benjamin Morrison (hip) are questionable for Week 1, and star receiver Chris Godwin remains on the PUP list, racing the clock to recover from his 2024 ankle injury. The team is optimistic about a Week 1 return for Godwin, but his absence in camp is a major storyline to watch.
While the offense celebrates its quarterback, Head Coach Todd Bowles is demanding more from his defense. The clear emphasis in camp? Turnovers. Bowles has been pushing his unit to be more aggressive and create takeaways, and the message is getting through. All-Pro safety Antoine Winfield Jr. has been a menace, already intercepting Mayfield twice in practice—both on passes intended for Mike Evans. One pick came off a tip from Zyon McCollum, showcasing the kind of team defense Bowles wants to see. While no one wants to see the franchise QB throwing picks, this defensive intensity is exactly what the coach ordered and will be crucial for winning close games.
Four straight NFC South titles. It's a remarkable run of dominance, spanning two different quarterbacks. With Mayfield locked in and a solid core returning under new OC Josh Grizzard, the Buccaneers are rightly positioned as playoff contenders once again. However, this won't be a cakewalk. The division is improving, with the Falcons and Panthers looking more competitive than in recent years. The early injuries to Godwin, Otton, and Walker present immediate challenges. Tampa Bay's depth will be tested early and often as they aim to make it five straight division crowns in what promises to be a much tighter race.
It was a day of highs and lows in Tampa. The franchise secured its leader in Baker Mayfield, a cause for major celebration. But the reality of the NFL grind hit hard with a season-ending injury and a growing list of key players on the mend. The challenge is clear: can the Bucs' renewed defensive fire and Mayfield's leadership overcome these early hurdles to maintain their grip on the NFC South? The next few weeks of camp will be critical in finding the answer.
