Report sheds light on Baker Mayfield’s future with Buccaneers

Aug 26, 2023; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) looks on against the Baltimore Ravens during the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were the only team willing to give Baker Mayfield an opportunity to start this season, and it sounds like the former top overall pick might wind up being more than just a placeholder.

Mayfield has had an outstanding year as Tampa Bay’s starting quarterback. His better-than-expected play is the main reason the Buccaneers are squarely in the playoff hunt heading into Week 16. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, both Mayfield and the Bucs are hoping to keep the partnership going in 2024.

Rapoport reported on Sunday that Mayfield and the Bucs have mutual interest in the quarterback returning in 2024 and potentially beyond. Mayfield is set to enter free agency, however, so there may be other teams interested after the way he has played this season. The Buccaneers also have the option of using the franchise tag on Mayfield.

Mayfield has thrown for 3,315 yards, 24 touchdowns and just 8 interceptions on the season. He was so good in last week’s win over the Green Bay Packers that he set a Lambeau Field record.

The Buccaneers have won their last three games to improve to 7-7, which has them in first place in the NFC South.

Many thought Tampa Bay would struggle to win a handful of games after Tom Brady retired, let alone make a potential playoff run. The 28-year-old Mayfield can only further boost his stock from this point forward.