The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and quarterback Baker Mayfield continue working toward a contract extension. Despite optimism from league insiders, no deal has been finalized. That leaves Mayfield entering the final season of the three-year contract he signed in March 2024.
While negotiations remain ongoing, former Buccaneers head coach Jon Gruden believes Tampa Bay shouldn’t overthink the situation.
Gruden Believes the Answer Is Obvious
Gruden, who led the Buccaneers to a Super Bowl championship following the 2002 season, recently shared his thoughts during a conversation with Ira Kaufman of JoeBucsFan.
To Gruden, the franchise faces one simple question.
“I think he’s the leader of the team,” Gruden said. “He can make all the throws, and he proved he can play in bad weather. I’m an owl — who, who, who are you going to get if you don’t have Baker Mayfield?”
It’s difficult to argue with that point.
Mayfield has stabilized the quarterback position since arriving in Tampa Bay. He has helped keep the Buccaneers competitive while re-establishing himself as one of the league’s better starting quarterbacks.
Tampa Bay Using It’s Leverage
Even if a new contract isn’t completed before the season begins, the Buccaneers aren’t without options.
Mayfield could play out the final year of his current deal. If negotiations remain unresolved afterward, Tampa Bay could still use the franchise tag to keep him from reaching free agency in 2027.
That scenario isn’t ideal for either side, but it gives the organization flexibility if talks continue into next offseason.
Mayfield’s Toughness Continues to Impress
Gruden also praised Mayfield’s competitive nature and willingness to sacrifice his body.
“He’s a fireball, man,” Gruden said. “How do you not like Mayfield? He brings it on the practice field, and he brings it on Sunday. In the most horrific of situations, how many times have you seen this guy scramble and sell out to get a first down?”
That relentless style has become one of Mayfield’s trademarks.
Unfortunately, it’s also one reason contract talks have generated discussion.
Reports earlier this offseason indicated the Buccaneers have some concern about the punishment Mayfield absorbs because of his aggressive playing style. Although he hasn’t missed a start since joining Tampa Bay in 2023, he has consistently battled through injuries.
Last season, Mayfield played through sprained MCL and PCL injuries suffered in Week 2. Later in the year, he also dealt with a significant injury to his non-throwing shoulder. A severe biceps contusion further affected his throwing velocity during the season.
His toughness has never been questioned. His long-term durability remains part of the overall contract conversation.
Gruden’s Advice Is Simple
Gruden understands why Mayfield wants long-term security after rebuilding his career in Tampa Bay.
“I think you’ve got to put yourself in his shoes,” Gruden said. “You’ve been to the Pro Bowl, you’ve played magnificent football here, and the Browns haven’t been very good since he left. Where are we going without Baker Mayfield? I’m hoping it will all work itself out. My advice? Take one snap at a time, just play good football down to down, stay healthy and great things are going to happen to Mayfield.”
Mayfield has previously stated he doesn’t want negotiations lingering once training camp begins on July 28. Whether that represents a firm deadline remains unclear.
Summary
The Buccaneers and Mayfield appear to be moving toward a contract extension, even if no agreement has been reached yet. Jon Gruden believes Tampa Bay already knows the answer to its quarterback situation, arguing the franchise has no better option than Mayfield. With training camp approaching, all eyes remain on whether the two sides can finalize a deal before the season begins.
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