Mayfield Finally Speaks On Contract Extension

After the 2024 season—a year that saw Buccaneers’ quarterback Baker Mayfield throw for 4,500 yards, a career-high 41 touchdowns, and post a 106.8 passer rating—he was all smiles.

The Buccaneers’ leader had no problem speaking publicly after that season.

In March 2025, he signed a contract extension that secured his place as Tampa Bay’s starting quarterback through the end of the 2026 season.

Fast forward to the conclusion of the 2025 season. During an offseason that saw both Mike Evans depart for San Francisco and Lavonte David retire, Mayfield remained noticeably quiet.

It wasn’t until June 5 that he spoke publicly. During that appearance, he addressed the loss of Evans and discussed his ongoing contract negotiations. Mayfield acknowledged that he and the Buccaneers remain far apart financially and even set a deadline, saying he wants a new deal completed before the start of training camp.

To say Buccaneers fans are searching for something to get excited about heading into the 2026 season would be an understatement.

Losing two Ring of Honor-caliber players is difficult to overcome. Mayfield’s somewhat tense press conference, in which he addressed his long-term future with the organization, did little to ease the concerns many fans have endured throughout the offseason.

Mayfield also didn’t exactly have a standout 2025 campaign, making it conceivable that the Buccaneers could choose to let him play out the season before committing to him with another long-term contract.

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Meanwhile, Todd Bowles enters the 2026 season on the hot seat. If Tampa Bay suffers another losing season, it’s possible the organization moves on from Bowles and brings in a new head coach—one who may not view Mayfield as the franchise quarterback.

Right now, it feels like the Buccaneers have more questions than answers. That’s hardly the kind of atmosphere that generates excitement among the fan base, and Mayfield’s recent press conference did little to change that perception.