After failed stints with the Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers, veteran quarterback Baker Mayfield was thought to be done as an NFL starter, but he was given an opportunity with the Los Angeles Rams to replace Matthew Stafford, who suffered a season-ending injury in 2022.
Fortunately for Mayfield, he played well in his short time with the Rams and drew the attention of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who were tasked with replacing retiring superstar Tom Brady.
Mayfield resurrected his career as a starter in Tampa Bay last season, convincingly leading the team to a division title and a playoff win over the Philadelphia Eagles.
Even though the Buccaneers ultimately lost to the Detroit Lions, Tampa Bay’s season was considered to be a success, with Mayfield set to benefit more than anyone, as he could now demand a lucrative long-term contract for his efforts.
Although it seemed uncertain whether the Buccaneers would bring back Mayfield, that happened on Sunday, with Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reporting a new deal between the two sides worth $100 million.
Sources: The #Bucs are closing in on a deal with QB Baker Mayfield, helping Tampa Bay become home for their starter. He gets a 3-year deal worth $100M with $50M guaranteed.
The Bucs continue to work on keep their core. pic.twitter.com/Ir28N6cDt1— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 10, 2024
Fans had plenty of reactions to the news about the Buccaneers committing to Mayfield for the next few years.
Man good for him.
Looked like he was heading towards being a journeyman backup and now this. 💰
— Ross Tucker (@RossTuckerNFL) March 10, 2024
That’s a steal for how he played last year! Glad Baker found some stability in his career
— JWAC (@JwacReactions) March 10, 2024
It’s pretty remarkable what Jason Licht and the Bucs have done in the front office from Brady to Mike Evans to their drafts to joe Baker.
Exactly what every fan wants their favorite teams to do.
— Jordan Moore (@iJordanMoore) March 10, 2024
With Mayfield and star wide receiver Mike Evans back in the fold, Tampa Bay has a chance to make some noise in the NFC moving forward if the team can continue to build around these stars while staying healthy come playoff time.
It remains to be seen whether Mayfield’s first season in Tampa Bay was a fluke, but the team seems confident that it wasn’t and that success can continue for the Buccaneers,
NEXT:
Mike Evans Sends A Clear Message About Baker Mayfield