Whatever tension existed between Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers appears to have disappeared. The relationship received a major boost Tuesday when Mayfield agreed to a new three-year, $165 million contract.
Mayfield had publicly criticized the team’s initial offer earlier this offseason. Meanwhile, general manager Jason Licht consistently avoided escalating the situation while discussing the negotiations with his quarterback.
Mayfield and Licht appeared together Wednesday to discuss the new agreement. The press conference also provided an opportunity to celebrate the security the contract creates for both sides.
Mayfield Sees Major Changes on Defense
Most of the attention surrounding Mayfield naturally centered on the offense and his new contract. However, the quarterback also made it clear that Tampa Bay’s defensive improvements have caught his attention.
Mayfield admitted he’s particularly happy that he won’t face the entire defense during practices anymore. He also explained how difficult that group had become to deal with throughout the offseason.
“Well, I can tell you I’m happy we’re into game plan, getting scout team looks [and] that they’re not all out there at once. It’s been pretty frustrating throughout the offseason program and camp,” Mayfield stated. “They’re flying around. [There are] upgrades everywhere between culture, depth up front in the defensive line…We’ve got some guys that can make truly game-changing plays.”
Mayfield then singled out several defensive players who have impressed him. His comments offered an inside perspective on how Tampa Bay’s defensive additions have looked from the quarterback’s viewpoint.
Mayfield Highlights Tampa Bay’s Front Seven
Mayfield specifically praised the leadership and playmaking ability he’s seen from several members of the defense. He also mentioned multiple newcomers and returning players who have stood out during the offseason.
“[Alex] Anzalone has been an incredible leader – obviously, he got voted a team captain just getting here – he’s been an incredible leader with a lot of experience,” Mayfield said. “Josiah Trotter, I’ve mentioned him a lot, he’s an animal – I’m looking forward to seeing what he does. Rueben Bain [Jr.] is just all ball. It’s fun to see Rueben go to work. Getting David Walker back healthy…I mean, I’m going to forget guys, but A’Shawn Robinson, ‘Nacho’ (Rakeem Nuñez-Roches), people that come in and they bring the attitude for us.”
There’s already plenty of optimism surrounding Tampa Bay’s defensive front heading into the season. The bigger question may involve whether the secondary can provide the same level of confidence.
Mayfield Believes in Tampa Bay’s Secondary
The Buccaneers have plenty of questions surrounding how their defensive backs will perform this season. Mayfield, however, doesn’t appear concerned about the group based on what he’s witnessed during the offseason.
“It’s great to see. In the secondary, Zyon [McCollum], ‘Tweeze’ (Antoine Winfield Jr.), Tykee [Smith], Jacob Parrish, Ayden Garnes. I mean, it’s the group of guys that they’ve put together, and they all feed off that energy together and they play for each other,” Mayfield stated. “It’s been extremely competitive. I’m excited for those guys to cut it loose.”
That represents a significant endorsement from the player who sees the defense throughout the team’s practices. Mayfield’s confidence also suggests he believes Tampa Bay’s defensive overhaul can translate into meaningful improvement.
If that confidence proves justified, the Buccaneers could have an intriguing season ahead. If the defense struggles, however, the pressure on Mayfield will only increase after his massive new contract.
Mayfield will now be expected to perform at a high level for the Buccaneers. That pressure isn’t only about winning games, but also justifying the organization’s enormous investment in him.
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