The Bucs weigh their future with QB Baker Mayfield, named 'underrated' amid trade rumors in June 2025. Will his 16 INTs last season lead to a trade?
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
One minute, Baker Mayfield is being hailed as the NFL's most underrated quarterback. The next, his name is swirling in trade rumors connecting him to Pittsburgh and Minnesota. Welcome to the offseason rollercoaster, Bucs fans. Friday brought a dizzying mix of praise and speculation, painting a clear picture of a franchise grappling with a crucial decision: Is Baker the long-term answer, or is it time to cash in?
Despite the praise, the debate is fueled by Mayfield's aggressive playing style and a league-high 16 interceptions last season.
It’s a classic case of risk versus reward. Athlon Sports just crowned Baker Mayfield the 'Most Underrated Quarterback' in the league, noting his leadership and growing bandwagon of supporters. Yet, that same gunslinging mentality that wins games also led to a league-high 16 interceptions last season. This has fueled intense speculation that the Bucs could move him, with analysts pointing to teams like the Steelers or Vikings as potential landing spots. The front office faces a tough call: build around the high-ceiling, high-turnover quarterback or seek a safer path as they look to rejuvenate the roster.
The decision on Mayfield isn't happening in a vacuum. The Buccaneers are chasing a historic fifth consecutive NFC South title, but the path is getting steeper. The Atlanta Falcons and Carolina Panthers are both expected to be far more competitive this season, meaning every divisional game will be a dogfight. Analysts agree that for the Bucs to hold onto their throne, they'll need Mayfield to elevate his game and cut down on the costly mistakes. The team's recent struggles against the Falcons, in particular, loom large, making the quarterback's performance the pivotal factor in the 2025 playoff race.
Amid the quarterback drama, two of the franchise's most iconic figures received major national recognition. Linebacker Lavonte David was bestowed a rare and incredible honor, being named to ESPN's All Quarter-Century Team. It’s a testament to a career defined by elite play and unwavering leadership, cementing his legacy as an all-time great. Meanwhile, Mr. Consistency himself, Mike Evans, landed at No. 82 on the NFL's Top 100 list. It’s another nod to his incredible streak of 1,000-yard seasons and his vital role as a professional, reliable target for whoever is under center. These honors are a powerful reminder of the championship-caliber foundation the team is built on.
So, where do the Bucs go from here? The team is a fascinating mix of legendary stability with David and Evans, and high-wire uncertainty with Mayfield. The front office's next move will define the 2025 season and beyond. Do they ride with the underrated gunslinger and hope he minimizes the mistakes, or do they pivot to a new direction? The debate will rage on, but one thing is clear: the road to a fifth division title is paved with tough decisions.
