Quarterback Baker Mayfield has secured a three-year contract extension worth $165 million with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Head coach Todd Bowles expressed his satisfaction with the deal, stating, "Obviously, I'm happy for him. He means a lot to our team with everything he's done in the past, but our work was normal."
Bowles noted that Mayfield has maintained his professional approach despite the contract negotiations, adding, "He's not going to change anything, so [I'm] proud of him for being a professional. We'll move on to the Cincinnati."
The Buccaneers are set to face the Cincinnati Bengals in their season opener on September 13. Mayfield has a favorable record against the Bengals, boasting a 6-2 all-time record, primarily from his tenure with the Cleveland Browns.
Mayfield, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, had a challenging start to his career, including a stint with the Carolina Panthers. However, he revitalized his career during a brief period with the Los Angeles Rams in December 2022, where he led the team to a victory shortly after joining.
Following his performance, the Buccaneers took a chance on him in free agency after the retirement of Tom Brady. In the 2023 season, Mayfield led the Buccaneers to the NFC South title and the playoffs, completing 64.3% of his passes for 4,044 yards and 28 touchdowns against 10 interceptions. His success earned him a new contract worth $100 million in 2024.
In his first three seasons with Tampa Bay, Mayfield has thrown for 12,273 yards and 95 touchdowns, ranking third in yards and second in touchdowns during that period. He also ranks second in completions and multi-touchdown games.
