Baker Mayfield Hasn’t Earned A Multiyear Contract
December 24th, 2023
Yes, Joe realizes the newspaper in Tampa is a twice-weekly enterprise stuck behind a paywall, and that it caters to casual fans who still like to sit on the toilet with handheld periodicals.
So Joe doesn’t pay much attention to the Tampa Bay Times like Joe did, say, 10 or 12 years ago.
However, Joe feels compelled to react to their takes at times.
Yesterday, the Times published a long piece saying Baker Mayfield has made a strong case for a long term contract.
Regarding a long term deal, author Rick Stroud added, “Although they won’t say publicly, both [Todd] Bowles and general manager Jason Licht appear to be on board. Mayfield’s agent, Jack Mills, has not had any discussions with the Bucs about an extension for Mayfield, but he would be surprised if it didn’t happen.”
Joe thinks any thought today of Mayfield getting a long-term deal is outrageous. Heck, two Sundays ago the Bucs and Mayfield were a Rachaad White run on fourth down from losing to the Falcons and a complete housecleaning of the Bucs roster from the head coach on down, Joe believes.
Joe advises everyone to calm down about a long term Mayfield contract with three games remaining in this season and the Bucs sitting with a 7-7 record.
Mayfield has played solid football in 2023. He’s been a good starter on a team and league scale. Maybe he’s the 13th or 14th best quarterback in the NFL.
However, Mayfield must finish the season strong for Joe to be on any bandwagon for making Mayfield the team’s franchise quarterback. It’s too early to even go there.
The offense is healthy and is no longer new, and the remaining opponents aren’t special. Go win games, make players around you better and prove you can be consistent in crunch time.
A winning season is on the table for these Bucs. Go get it. There should be no talk of dessert, for Mayfield or Todd Bowles, until the plates are clean and all the vegetables have been eaten.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:00 am
I’ve been a Bucs fan since 76. I will 11 and a huge USC fan. When John McKay came to Tampa so did my love for the Bucs who were called USC east since he had so many Trojans. I want to win Super Bowls. I do not have faith Bowles and Baker can do that. Let’s draft a franchise WB.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:00 am
I agree. I’m finally sold on him the rest of this year…but contract-wise depends on this year’s results.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:04 am
Amen Joe. Yes, he had a great game against GB, but the knee jerk reactions are out of hand. Mason Rudolph had a good game yesterday, Jake Browning had a good game a few weeks ago; should they get multi-year extensions?
We’ve seen this yo-yo play style from Baker in years past. He has many limitations and shortcomings. He’s not going to put an entire team on his shoulders.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:06 am
For me the prospect of a Baker Mayfield contract extension comes down to the dollars and cents that are guaranteed.
We have the prime example in our division with Derek Carr which shows why paying $37.5m per year to a middling QB who’s maybe the 12th to 16th best on his position, does not lead the team on the road to success.
The Bucs should not repeat that mistake. If Mayfield wants Daniel Jones/Derek Carr money, he either has to seek it elsewhere or really do remarkable things in December and January for the Buccaneers.
The midlevel quarterback contract basically does not exist in the NFL, but that is what I would offer Mayfield. Something along the lines of $80M/3 Years would be reasonable.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:08 am
4 yr deal 2 yrs guarenteed I dont think is a longterm Franchise QB commitment. Bucs still need to draft a QB. I dont understand Teams like the Bucs not drafting a QB somewhere in any Rd every year or two until you f’n hit on one.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:09 am
I’m a Baker stan – followed him here from the Browns in fact. I agree he can’t screw up these next few weeks and still get a $30m deal to stay with the Bucs. That said, if the season ended today (or if he compiles a decent-not-great stat line these next few weeks and finishes with something like 62%, 28 td, 10 int, 3900 yds) then he ought to get a deal in that range with about 1/3 to 1/2 guaranteed.
Middling QBs have regularly been overpaid recently, including guys like Jones, Garropolo (twice), Tannehill, Carr, etc. I assume this happens repeatedly due to market dynamics and not teams being stupid. Baker has been terribly unlucky with timing of injuries and stretches of bad play, but if he can hold the line for three more games, he should get a decent bag and the opportunity for a solid couple seasons as the acknowledged starter.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:11 am
There just isn’t enough on film to warrant a 3+ year deal. Win the next 3 and win a playoff game, I’ll jump on the bandwagon. But until then, I can’t take that ride.
Committing to baker for any long term time means Todd is here for possibly that long and I cannot commit to that.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:14 am
I seriously doubt that Jason Licht is going to make a decision based on the first 14 games of a season when the final 3 games are the most important ones and haven’t yet been played.
I like Baker and have no problem with the Bucs keeping him around if he finishes this season strong, especially if he plays well in a playoff game should we get into the playoffs.
IF we manage to get into the playoffs I’m sure that Jason Licht and the Glazers will be watching very closely at how well both Baker and Bowles perform their jobs. If either of them F-up in that game they could get launched the day after.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:14 am
This Joe has respectable takes. Eat your veggies, Baker.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:17 am
If he finishes like he’s playing now – Mayfield would be slotted in for a contract that’s similar to the one a very mediocre Daniel Jones got from the Giants for 4 years $160 million. $82 million of that was guaranteed and the Giants forked over $36 million as a signing bonus.
With the Bucs making the playoffs with Mayfield balling – he’ll get that kind of deal from someone if the Bucs aren’t willing to do it. This is a QB-starved league and ‘average’ guys like Mayfield are coveted by teams stuck with scrubs.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:21 am
The franchise tag for QBs will be @ $36M. The transition tag is @ $31M…
It would be an expensive way to go but it would be nice to see the same QB back to play in Dave Canalas’ system for at least one more season.
I doubt Trask is the answer and the only decent free agent QB is Kurt Cousins and he would probably be just as expensive.
Drafting a QB is an option but will a rookie QB drafted in the middle of round one be any better than Baker? Probably not.
If the head coach stays and the OC stays Baker will stay.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:25 am
100% agree with this take Joe, 👏🏽 bravo!
December 24th, 2023 at 11:25 am
2-3 years.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:26 am
Finally a Baker fan with some sense to him in Abovedalaw. Baker has been ok and ok qbs only deserve a one year prove it more contract with a higher salary of course. Now if he plays well these last 3 games and helps win a playoff game then how can he not deserve at least a 3 year deal? I would be on board with a qb who resurrected his career even if it means Bowles gets to stick around
December 24th, 2023 at 11:28 am
Joe … ‘Go win games, make players around you better and prove you can be consistent in crunch time.’
That’s EXACTLY what I want to see out of Baker for these last 3 games also. And especially the CONSISTENT part.
In terms of next year, it’s a matter of priorities IMO. Wirfs and Winfield … FIRST (we can’t afford to lose either one of them; they’re the foundation that we need to build upon). THEN we can move to Evans and Mayfield (OR his replacement) once we know where our salary CAP stands at that point (I strongly suspect that we’ll have to release at least 2-3 highly paid veterans and restructure several others to scrape together enough $$$ to build a competitive 2024 roster, and those releases will have far-reaching implications of their own).
Beyond those 4 key players, Bucs will have to add 16 other players to make it up to the 53-man roster (we currently have 33 under contract from the current roster, plus re-signing those 4 key players, plus another 16 AND the replacements for any cuts/releases to hit 53). Jason Licht has his job cut out for him again in 2024; I don’t envy him in the task that he’s facing.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:37 am
Totally agree Joe. Losing in the first round of a home playoff game should launch the whole regime (excepting Licht and his crew). There’s just no reason to keep them in that case. Why? So we have Dungy 2.0? Good enough to back into the playoffs, nowhere near good enough to win a SB. So what’s the point? Now, if Bowles gets to the NFC ship and loses? I’m happy to bring him back. But that’s just not likely. This team isn’t beating the. Cowboys, Eagles, or Niners.
This is all an exercise in futility. And destroying our chance for a quality long term QB. Congrats.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:39 am
I’m a baker fan, but I just don’t see him taking teams deep in the playoffs let alone the Super Bowl. So if our goal is squeaking into the playoffs, then yes sign him, I would like us to have higher standards than that.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:39 am
It’s not just the times. He’s going to get offers, up to Licht if he wants to retain him.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:41 am
If baker gets a 30 mil contract, who do we not sign? We are projected to have 47 million.
Big name free agents are Baker, Evans, Mcgloughlin, Wirfs, Winfield.
If you resign Wirfs, his current hit is 18 mil. I would expect that to come down some, but not too much. Say we add 3 mill.
Evans will need an 18-20 mil contract. Down to 30
Winfield gets 15-18 mil contract. Down to 13.
McLaughlin gets a 3 mil contract. Down to 10.
You can probably up that to 20 left with some other restructures. Will Mayfield sign a contract that is a 12-15 mil hit? If so yeah it’s worth it. If not we have to lose a big name guy, either Evans or Winfield. Both are more valuable and proven than baker…
December 24th, 2023 at 11:42 am
Even if you draft a guy high there’s a chance he’ll bust. We’ve got a no. 1 overall pick now. Resign him, build him an o-line and work on the secondary.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:43 am
Agreed JOE until the packers game. 6 has bin inconsistent. He’s made plays in crunch time to win games. Maybe another season in the system and with the offense and he plays more consistently. If we win out the next 3 games take the division and play great in a playoff game sign him for another year. Draft a QB 6 , 2 and rookie can battle it out. 2 will prob leave after his contract next year
December 24th, 2023 at 11:45 am
Amen!!!!!! @joes well said.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:46 am
I agree that Baker looked better but can he sustain it and exhibit mojo.
Hit your outlet no matter what and throw the ball away with confidence that the next play could go for 20.
Run a hurry up on the fly and call a TO when you see something you don’t like.
Stats are great and this team still has top 10 talent at key positions and SB experience.
But some of these intangibles Im mentioning are real in terms of a long term contract. It’s important they make the right decision especially coming out of the Brady debt. Overpaying for an always mediocre Baker would be bad.
25$ million and let’s bring in talent and a 2nd year under Bowles and Canales and now we are talking.
If he lights it up these next 3 games then we can reevaluate.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:49 am
It’ll all play out accordingly AFTER the season. People love speculating. Thankfully Licht doesn’t have to make these decisions now.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:50 am
Pretty wild take if you ask me. You might not want to give it to him but he will definitely be getting a 2-3 year deal with a nice looking guarantee number after the way he has played this year, it’s just the way the NFL works. Good chunk of teams are going to be in the QB market and he also could help bridge the gap for a rookie who isn’t day 1 ready. Certainly going to be an interesting offseason with the Bucs.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:52 am
I agree but I think Baker is on a roll and they’re going to light up the Hags today, stomp the trashy garbage no class Saints, shut out the Panzers and finish 10-7. I however think now that Todd Bowles is a weak head coach, Canales can be brilliant but also brain dead at times (which may come from Bowlesack interference) and we seriously need to find someone since Bissacia left who can coach up special teams. If Baltimore and Miami win this week, we may have a slim chance in the playoffs but I won’t hold my breath. I like Baker but we need to draft a QB for the future and send Trask away with Devin White.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:52 am
Agree 100%. The schedule is 17 games for a reason. Let’s see them all then make a decision with all the information.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:53 am
Rick Stroud is a notorious Baker Mayfield sycophant, and Kyle Trask hater to boot. His opinions are biased, nonobjective, and consequently worthless. Word on the street is that he comments here as “Tony Marks”.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:55 am
Who said anything about a franchise qb? If the price is right, you sign him to a long term deal to be either our starter or a transitional mentor for an up-and-comer that we draft next year. Stroud’s article referenced a market value for Mayfield of around $16.5M / yr for 2 years. That wasn’t the Market value.–Joe If Licht is able to negotiate something like that, then you make that happen.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:55 am
Season is not over yet.
Future contracts and extensions are on the table for the final 3+ games.
Still gotta prove it after a truly stinky start.
That said, Mayfield WILL get a longer dealio for 2024, either with the Bucs or somewhere else.
…..
The draft is no guarantee of a top-shelf QB. The Jags QB is a perfect example. He was supposed to be a savior of the Jags and every QB-needy team coveted him. But NOW many are “meh” when talking about him.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:57 am
So a career 31-38 quarterback (.449) earns a multiyear contract because he ekes out a 7-7 record (.500) with a new team? My how the NFL has fallen.
December 24th, 2023 at 12:06 pm
Morale will not improve until the Bucs have won the next two games and get a bye for week eighteen with Kyle calling the shots in the backfield.
December 24th, 2023 at 12:07 pm
He should be tendered something simple:
2024: 15m
2025: 20m
2026: 25m
2027: 30m
Each year guaranteed at the start of each NFL year.
Its good money if he continues his improved play, in a low-tax state, great weather, grass field — and no one will offer him near that.
December 24th, 2023 at 12:08 pm
Let’s see how it plays out the next 3 games.
December 24th, 2023 at 12:10 pm
Mark Plant City …Kyle with the rest of the backups you mean?
December 24th, 2023 at 12:12 pm
Despite Buccaneer Bonzee aka Pete DutchOven aka pre-teen fantasy author giving Baker a reluctant thumbs up after pining for Used Carr…it’s wait and see. Reminds me of 2019 when Winny was on the cusp with three games to go and soiled the sheets spectacularly. Of course that ushered in Brady but there’s no Brady waiting in the wings this time.
December 24th, 2023 at 12:12 pm
@MJD: even .500 QB’s are rare commodities in today’s NFL.
Perhaps you can offer a better veteran solution. I say veteran because rook QB’s are a total crapshoot.
December 24th, 2023 at 12:17 pm
Joe, you snooze you lose. Diddle now, snivel later. If licht wants him, I’m in. He made these kinds of calls before, and that’s why he’s the GM.
December 24th, 2023 at 12:26 pm
Yes, let’s reserve judgment. There are three more games to go, and Baker Mayfield should be evaluated based on his performance over the course of a full season. Even if he does well and is then re-signed, the Bucs can still draft another QB to develop in the long-term behind him. As we have seen this year around the league, a QB can go down and go down hard at any time. Having a solid stable of backups is a necessity.
December 24th, 2023 at 12:28 pm
So true about being on the verge of a housecleaning in Atlanta. I love how Bake responded. Today is another huge test. I’m with Joe on this one. The Bucs & Mayfield are trending up; however they handle it collectively will determine the fate of both players and coaches.
December 24th, 2023 at 12:35 pm
Much will depend on the next 3 games & playoffs, if playoffs……coupled with whether or not Mayfield has other suitors…..
He’ll earn whatever the market offers him.
December 24th, 2023 at 12:38 pm
We set ourselves up for failure EVERY season with this silly concept. This team has never had a franchise quarterback, and I would argue that because of it, we dont even know what it looks, tastes, or smells like. This team has won 2 championships without a franchise quarterback. I heard Buffalo has a franchise qb, but he is a turnover machine that has his team playing around .500. What about the two young franchise keepers that play in Ohio? Oh yeah, that old man Flacco, and some other guy this season. Stafford is a keeper right? Nope. Carr and Russ, they get big money, they gotta franchise guys right? Sorry. Dak a franchise guy? What about Tua? Who does have a franchise quarterback, and how ridiculous does it sound for us to keep pining for something that I am not certain even a handful of teams have?
December 24th, 2023 at 12:39 pm
Not sold on Baker and definitely not sold on Bowles. Need to see more wins and those wins need be clear and separating wins. Not barely winning like most of the Bucs wins have been this year. If Bucs do retain Baker max 2 year contract. But lets put the brakes on contract talks with Baker and if the Bucs will make another significant jump of improvement today against Trevor and the Jaguars. I want to see if this team can look like a can not get blown out by other playoff teams. Jags are a good test for Bucs today.
December 24th, 2023 at 12:40 pm
If he finishes strong and we keep him it shouldn’t be for huge guaranteed money.
3 years maximum with lots of attainable incentives.
And, we still need to draft a QB.
December 24th, 2023 at 1:01 pm
If he Makes de playoffs and the price is reasinable Makes sense, to Many Ifs.
Not sure where the cap will be.
You can also trade CDIII and or Dean.
Wirfs Weinfield Evans should be priorities.
I
December 24th, 2023 at 1:02 pm
Baker earned the franchise tag but I still want to see what Kyle Trask can do and if he’s better than Mayfield
December 24th, 2023 at 1:14 pm
Baker is giving us top 5 Qb in the nfc play for league minimum. We would be crazy not to sign him to a long term contract at say 10 million a year. We have so many good young players and with one more really good draft we will be contenders. A lot of the holes on this roster have been filled nicely. Go draft two big athletic lineman let’s pound teams into submission and dominate.
December 24th, 2023 at 1:22 pm
DungyDance … ‘Stroud’s article referenced a market value for Mayfield of around $16.5M / yr for 2 years. (That wasn’t the Market value.–Joe) If Licht is able to negotiate something like that, then you make that happen.’
Just looked it up on Spotrac, and you’re right DungyDance, they show Mayfield’s Market Value as being $16.6 mil right now. Some others that’ve been quoted in other comments however are quite a bit higher than quoted:
o Evans: $23.6 mil
o Wirfs: $28.1 mil
o Winfield: $18.2 mil
They don’t show Market Values for the rest of our 2024 Free Agents, but we’ve got a bunch of them (20 as of now, and a goodly number of them will need to be re-signed, like LVD, McLaughlin, Delaney, etc).
And I agree with you; IF Licht is able to re-sign Mayfield for $16.5 mil per year for 2 years, JL will go for it. Gut feeling though is that Baker will want something between $30-35 mil for 3 or more years, with half guaranteed. Not sure that the Bucs can swing that in 2024 without compromising our team re-building.
December 24th, 2023 at 1:30 pm
We need to get a rook next draft–will be some in the later rounds
December 24th, 2023 at 1:34 pm
It would be foolish to resign Baker now when you don’t even know who the HC and OC are going to be next year. Gonna scare off a lot of qualified coaches if you tell them they have to be hand-tied to a sub .500 QB.
December 24th, 2023 at 1:45 pm
Another Article by the” not so smart” Joe
Since their inception in the seventies, how many QBs have the Bucs drafted.
Take your time.
26, yup. Twenty Six.
Two were the first pick in the Draft.
How many of these these well scouted wunderkin have taken us to a Superbowl?
None. NONE.
Out of 50 years worth of drafting QBs, how many have taken us tothe playoffs?
2 Doug Williams and Shaun King.
Now the double money bonus round.
OF ALL 26 QBs DRAFTED BY THE BUCS, HOW MANY HAVE A WINNING RECORD WITH THE BUCS ?
NONE!!
Our winning QBs have been Brad Johnson, Jeff Garcia, and Tom Brady.
We didnt draft any of them.
So yeah, lets let Mayfield go, and draft some rookie.
We are SOOOOO good at drafting rookies.
Go Bucs today! Mayfield may join that list of winning QBs
December 24th, 2023 at 1:49 pm
No to Baker Mayfield we have to many other players that needs to be snig!! And you know ain’t winning a superbowl with Baker Mayfield or less we have the 2002 bucs defense. So why waste time with Baker Mayfield it’s time to move on into the future!! We need to draft a quarterback in the first round and if they decide to bring him back at what price is the big question ❓ Remember that also Todd Bowles will be back and that would look like his second season with the Jets with Fitzpatrick was his quarterback the were 5-11 .
December 24th, 2023 at 1:55 pm
I need a correction
Shaun King and Brian Griese both had a winning record, but started less than 25 games.
So they didnt win the starting QB role for 2 seasons.
We have never accomplished anything but Failure, when we drafted QBs. Not one decent starter, in 50 years.
So year, lets draft another one.
Hard to believe the cluelessness
December 24th, 2023 at 1:58 pm
Baker has the rest of the year to prove if he’s worth bringing back or not.
December 24th, 2023 at 2:08 pm
A multi-year deal does NOT equal “franchise QB”. Gabbert had one. Trask will likely get one. Were or are they “franchise QBs”?.
Brady retiring left a huge hole and we were lucky to get Mayfield when we did. The low salary was a bonus. Let him walk and what do we have? Another huge hole at the most important position.
We’d be left with lots of questions and zero answers. Trask? Who knows. Even if we had a great pick in the draft, still a big question mark. How’s that going in Carolina? Trey Lance anyone? Not trying to keep Mayfield here would be GM malpractice.
All of the draft nerds, Trask conspiracy theorists just don’t seem to grasp how hard it is to get a competent QB, let alone a “star, franchise” guy..
Baker isn’t Joe Montana but he ain’t no Blaine Gabbert either. I personally would prefer to see Mayfield locked in before the draft and free agency hits. He may not be “THE” answer, but he’s “AN” answer. Opening training camp with nothing but question marks at the most important position would be dumb AF.
December 24th, 2023 at 2:15 pm
WoW Abovedalaw, finally a Baker Mayfield fan that is connected to reality. I respect you for being truthful. At first I didn’t have any faith that he could get any better but I have seen improvement in him and I’m hoping he can play his best for the last 3 games and continue his improvement as the Buccaneers QB, he has a lot of good traits in him that can’t be taught.
December 24th, 2023 at 2:16 pm
Capt. The reason why we don’t have a franchise quarterback the bucs drafted is because the media turned y’all against Jamies. I remember when none of y’all cared about the running game until Brady came. None of y’all cared about Jamies throwing the ball 45 times a game and now y’all care about how many times a quarterback throws the ball. No one cared about those 32 ranked defenses until Brady came and now Baker Mayfield . Imagine if the bucs would have ran the ball over 20 times a game like they do now how many games we would have closed out. No one cared about or notice that every game we won or just about every game the bucs had to score at 30 points or more to win those games. The reason Jamies didn’t make it here is because the media hated him and they convinced the fan to turn on him . Facts!!!
December 24th, 2023 at 2:31 pm
It’s remarkable all the people who think Baker’s career day in GB is the new norm.
He was terrible leading up to that Packers game, absolutely terrible. He cost the team the Colts game, and nearly cost them the Panthers and Falcons games, both which would have been big blowouts if Baker wasn’t awful.
With that said, if Baker can get on a hot streak and close out the year on a roll and get the Bucs into the playoffs and not fall flat on his face, that will go a very very long ways towards changing the label on Mayfield, which is that he’s a bust.
So do all that and win a playoff game then you get another year.
Anyone talking multi-year is literally insane.
December 24th, 2023 at 2:32 pm
Baker Who?
-The Cleveland Browns
December 24th, 2023 at 2:47 pm
OneilBuc, Jameis’ career numbers are very comparable to Baker’s, except Baker’s interception rate is far superior.
As you clearly believe JW could have been a franchise guy, why can’t BM?
December 24th, 2023 at 2:49 pm
“ because the media turned y’all against Jamies.” No Jameis turned us against jameis! Why is he 2/3rd string in Nola? Why not sign somewhere else and be a starter?
“ None of y’all cared about Jamies throwing the ball 45 times a game” Bucs had to throw 45 times a game because they were constantly playing behind due to Winston’s turnovers. When you turn the ball over more than you throw tds, that’s a problem.
December 24th, 2023 at 2:50 pm
Multi year contract and he has had two good games. One was a loss. No he isn’t worth a big contract. He plays hard but he isn’t the answer. Ide rather go for the future in the draft.
December 24th, 2023 at 2:52 pm
If Bowles stays, Baker stays. If Bowles goes, Baker goes. They’re married now.
December 24th, 2023 at 2:54 pm
Nicely said Joe. The season is bipolar – 0 and 6 vs winning teams, 7-1 vs losers. That doesn’t mean anyone involved – QB, coaches – should be asking for long term deals for Christmas.
December 24th, 2023 at 2:57 pm
Tristan Wirfs, Antoine Winfield, Mike Evans, Levonte David. Those are the 4 main players we must resign this off-season.
Baker can go collect his long-term contract elsewhere. He’s not worth more than 10 mil/yr and if you consider him your long term solution you’re settling for NFL mediocrity.
I will say this, NFL teams have won superbowls with lesser QB’s, but if we resign Baker long-term and dump QB money on him I will be very disappointed with the front office for making that decision.
He wasn’t even perfect in GB and they are NOT a good NFL team by any means. One of his better games, definitely. Sack fumble leading to GB TD anybody? He held the ball for 6 or 7 seconds. Glad I’m not the only one who remembers his atrocious play in ATL and Carolina. It’s not all his fault. But anybody thinking we should commit to him long term is setting the bar pretty low or they don’t really understand the game they’re watching.
I like Baker. I’m glad we started him over Kyle Trask. But we know what he is. I’d really like to see Kyle in action and I have way less faith in his ability, because he’s unproven and the tape on him is not doing him any favors, but Trask has more potential. Potential doesn’t always pan put, but the ceiling is higher. We’d get less balls batted down at the LoS too.
December 24th, 2023 at 3:11 pm
Sure, let Mayfield go, so you can sign Evans, Wirfs, etc.
Is anyone here dumb enough to Think MikeEvans is gonna wanna stay here,
To Play with a ROOKIE QB??
You cant possibly know that little about Football. Or lufe.
I think Evans had already decided to take it easy this year, and go play with a contender next season.
Evans is the reason he is playing hard. If he comes back next year- it will be because of Baker Mayfield.
Not noodle arm Trask, not some scared rookie, not money.
Mayfield gives him a good chance to win another ring.
First ballet hall of fame.
We get a pass rusher, and fix the line- Mayfield can win.
No Rookie is gonna walk in here, and take Mike to the playoffs.
It doesnt happen.
Wirfs might come back hes young. But our best talent, and any Free agent talent,
Isnt gonna go play with a rookie.
Sad I have to explain that.
December 24th, 2023 at 3:12 pm
Big Red – It’s worth remembering that Wirfs will still be on his rookie deal next year, and while it will be expensive as a 5th year option, his new deal as the top paid lineman in football won’t kick in until the following year.
As for Baker, there’s no situation where I’m giving him a multi-year deal unless he wins the SB, if that happens, then I’ll eat a few years of a bad deal and do so happily.
But if Baker plays lights out for the rest of the year and wins a playoff game, he’ll be back next year. So it’s up to him, he’ll see what happens.
December 24th, 2023 at 3:15 pm
“Mayfield is the reason he is playing hard”
“Another ring, Evans is first ballet hall of fame”
Sorry guys. Tired. Too much holiday cheer last night
December 24th, 2023 at 3:18 pm
Calm down hell wake me up besides a few games he been meh nothing to write home about!
December 24th, 2023 at 3:24 pm
“Mayfield has played solid football in 2023. He’s been a good starter on a team and league scale. Maybe he’s the 13th or 14th best quarterback in the NFL.”
—————
🙂
Ah I can tell this was written by the closet hater Joe not the other one. Baker presently ranks 9th on at least one national ranking. If you think a QB ranked 9th hasn’t earned a “multi year” contract ( regardless of where that is and for how much or little)) thats some grade A Crack
I do agree that a LONGterm contract shouldn’t be talked about yey but once again CLicky baity title. Multi year is anything over one.
Baker CLEARLY has earned a 2-3 year cotract and it reall doesn’t matter if you agree. Sounds like they have a source from those who do matter.
and regardless that assumes Tampa is the only one who can decides he’s earned a contract.
So keep talkign trash aboutthe QB that if defense was worth a lick would have already guided his team to a winning record ( say it aint so looking at the final minute of the Huoston game)
You might end up with bust QB from the 20th spot of the draft starting next
season. Welcome to the world of the Panthers
December 24th, 2023 at 3:31 pm
Defense Rules … “Some others that’ve been quoted in other comments however are quite a bit higher than quoted:
o Evans: $23.6 mil
o Wirfs: $28.1 mil
o Winfield: $18.2 mil”
It will be heartbreaking, but realistically we’ll be experiencing some casualties next year, even with the turbo charged cap space. The QB position should be prioritized though. Especially for $16.5M / yr to get someone halfway decent.
December 24th, 2023 at 3:40 pm
Jaguars 28, Bucs 17. Jacksonville will out-muscle Tampa on both sides of the line and will simply bully the Bucs in the second half. Sorry. Wish I was wrong and I will come back and eat crow if the Bucs do prove me wrong.
December 24th, 2023 at 3:40 pm
Joe is not knowledgeable in the least.
December 24th, 2023 at 3:41 pm
Rod Mush says:
Anyone talking multi-year is literally insane.
—-
I don’lt know where you and this joe learned mathemataics but 2 is a multi year contract.
Saying Baker hasn’t earned even a 2-3 year conract at any price is just your usualy stupidity.
What I LOOOOOVE about all these comments is a number of you swear the bucs are inthe drivers seat to decide.
LOL LOL
One thing about Dumb. IT ALWAYS has conitnutiy going for it. Bake is on a one year contract. Simole Math is biitng your argument in the head in the rear at the same time. HE WOULD say he would like to come back even if he thinks he may very well bolt. He’s already tanked the day dreams of a top draft pick and can leave the bucs high and dry with Mission Accomplished..
December 24th, 2023 at 3:43 pm
No starting qb in this league is gonna sign a multi-year contract for $16 million, that’s pure fantasy. If that’s our final offer, he’s probably going Atlanta, mebbe NE or Vegas. If we’re afraid to commit, then tag him for the mid $30’s, whatever it is
December 24th, 2023 at 3:46 pm
@Tony: Rod is the 1976 Tampa Bay Buccaneers of trolls. I especially like how Bucs Rays Bolts (who does awesome work, BTW) banned him from commenting on his YT videos.
December 24th, 2023 at 3:47 pm
…. What tony said.😊
December 24th, 2023 at 3:57 pm
Better sign Baker in a hurry for a multi year deal. Otherwise, he will sign a long term deal with Pittsburgh where he will be gladly welcomed. Tried to tell you doubters.
December 24th, 2023 at 4:00 pm
Do players have agencies that sign die hard fans. Asking for a friend.
December 24th, 2023 at 4:03 pm
Tony marks Says:
I can tell this was written by the closet hater Joe not the other one. Baker presently ranks 9th on at least one national ranking.
—–
Oh man, on an unnamed national ranking he’s top 10! Now that’s some cred, and you should give him a 8-year $600-million dollar deal based off that!
December 24th, 2023 at 4:13 pm
You need to rewatch all of the games before you blame the offense or the defense for the loss.
If our defense doesn’t cause 3 turnovers against Minnesota we don’t win that game.
The Chicago game our offense played well and Shaq sealed the victory with a pick 6 for a total team victory. One of the rare ones this season.
If our defense doesn’t completely melt down and cost us the game after an amazing performance by Baker and the offense.
Baker and the offense moving the ball and scoring at will against the Packers are the reason for the victory.
The true reason for the Bucs record is that some games the defense led the way, other games the offense did. Some games the defense let us down and some games the offense let us down.
And some games like against Detroit, San Fran and Philadelphia, both the offense and defense let us down.
December 24th, 2023 at 4:15 pm
You need to rewatch all of the games before you blame the offense or the defense for the loss.
If our defense doesn’t cause 3 turnovers against Minnesota we don’t win that game.
The Chicago game our offense played well and Shaq sealed the victory with a pick 6 for a total team victory. One of the rare ones this season.
If our defense doesn’t completely melt down and cost us the game against the Texans after an amazing performance by Baker and the offense.
Baker and the offense moving the ball and scoring at will against the Packers are the reason for the victory.
The true reason for the Bucs record is that some games the defense led the way, other games the offense did. Some games the defense let us down and some games the offense let us down.
And some games like against Detroit, San Fran and Philadelphia, both the offense and defense let us dow
December 24th, 2023 at 4:18 pm
Bryce Young had a career day vs the Packers defense, went over 300 yards, which is like 600 yards for any other QB.
Tommy Devito had a career day vs the Packers defense.
Baker Mayfield had a career day vs the Packers defense.
I see a trend.
Let’s hope Baker can use that momentum in any case.
December 24th, 2023 at 4:26 pm
Wirfs is a two time All Pro.
Wirfs plays the $$$$ position in the NFL.
Laremy Tunsil has never been an all pro, but he’s a 3 time Pro Bowler.
He signed his second contract to be the highest paid LT for $25 million a year.
Wirfs is going to command a higher salary than Tunsil. That’s how the NFL and agents and contracts work.
December 24th, 2023 at 4:48 pm
Mayfield is average at best. He has the personality many like, but his physical talent is not exceptional. He can easily be replaced.
December 24th, 2023 at 5:04 pm
The local paper is $3 on Sunday . It’s great for when you are out of Charmin
December 24th, 2023 at 5:16 pm
BuxfaninTX – the St Pete Times is $3 on Sundays? Wow, really? Who the hell reads that trash – and who in the world would pay $3 for it?
December 24th, 2023 at 5:32 pm
RodMunch, David, BelleGlade, Jack Clark,
How do you like me now?
Merry Christmas,
Baker
December 24th, 2023 at 5:42 pm
Go ahead and bring Baker Mayfield back next year all in on it now as long as we draft a quarterback . But you got to give credit were credit is do !! Go Bucs
December 24th, 2023 at 5:54 pm
Desperate topics call for worn out ideas
December 24th, 2023 at 7:12 pm
@Gipper
I live rent free in your head for some reason. Sad.
December 24th, 2023 at 7:17 pm
So let me see if they don’t win playoff game with new OC,mist rookies in league new QB,everyone said they wud b last in the division now @8&7 beat a winning record team bakers # r certainly there player of week last week QB passer 158.3 in G.B.4 TD 381 yds today with 125 qbr today but he is mediocre.didnt he take browns to playoffs & won in Steelers land but he still needs to prove himself
December 24th, 2023 at 7:20 pm
Georgiaredneck that comment is exactly why u r a friggin redneck now go clean them squirrels & make sure u eat the brains cause u need some (brains)
December 24th, 2023 at 7:33 pm
I think after tonight, Baker has clearly earned a long term contract. I would hate to have to find a replacement
December 24th, 2023 at 7:35 pm
Everyone calling for a 1st or 2nd round QB need to chill out. When did we draft Trask? How much does he play? He is still making good $. Look at Jameis Winston he was a first round and look at him now. We do not need to waste a pick on a QB. A good tight end would help with the short passing immensely and that seems to be where Baker excels. Another quality offensive lineman would help that too. Our last draft was all defense so we need to get some good offensive picks this time I feel. We could use some good d safeties or cornerbacks because ours has kinda sucked this year. Maybe because it looks like we play way to much zone and leave way to much cushion way to often. Rachaad white has been very impressive lately especially with how bad he sucked the first 10 plus games this year. He did not produce a whole lot last year either so a high round RB makes since too. That new kicker is money. Remember that high round kicker who sucked balls a couple years ago. His last name started with an A
December 24th, 2023 at 7:39 pm
5yrs, $150mil….do it!
December 24th, 2023 at 7:49 pm
Steelers will pay up for Baker. You Traskies are going to get your way. Too bad, so sad, you’ve been had. Baker is a football player. Teammates love him even if the Baker haters never will.
December 24th, 2023 at 7:54 pm
The Pittsburgh Steelers are $7 million dollars over the salary cap for the 2024 season per Spotrac.
The Steelers literally don’t have the money to sign Baker to a contract next year.
December 24th, 2023 at 7:56 pm
The Steelers are $7 million over the 2024 NFL salary cap, and thus they literally don’t have any money to sign Baker to a big long term contract.
December 24th, 2023 at 7:57 pm
Go ahead and get rid of Baker. You got him cheap, he’s paid his way. Throw him away….He can take Pittsburgh, Minn, Chicago and Seattle a long long way and 8 other teams would take him in a second. Go ahead, blow him out cause i want to laugh watching you crying next year. You got a guy that actually wants to be there in spite of thumb sucking fans like you. End of rant
December 24th, 2023 at 8:01 pm
Well, Baker backed up great game against GB with very good game against Jacksonville (26-35 283 yards 2 TD 0 INT). Of course, the Baker haters will now say it is no big deal because Jacksonville is not any good even with winning record. Anytime Baker plays well, there is always something said to downplay his performance. BTW- Last year Brady had 25 TD passes and 9 INTs. This year so far Baker has 26 TD passes and 8 INTs.
I am not a GM but signing Baker to 2–3-year contract while drafting a QB in one of those years sounds right to me.
December 24th, 2023 at 8:09 pm
BelleGlade,
It is the absolute certainty in which you and the rest of the Hate Baker Brigrade would tear into Baker. I have followed him since Oklahoma and when I tried to defend him, I have been derided by your club. Have months worth of postings to prove my point. Not going to waste anymore time on you and your hate club.
December 24th, 2023 at 8:33 pm
You’re crazy, Joe. He’s played solid all year. He doesn’t make allot of bad throws. He’s only thrown 5 INTs all year. Even if Licht did admit he’s a total failure and blow up the roster, Mayfield is still a capable QB who can provide continuity through any re-build.
December 24th, 2023 at 8:38 pm
Gipper-Still living rent free in your mind I can tell. I stated facts about Pittsburgh salary cap situation in 2024, and somehow you still keep going of topic. Sad.
December 24th, 2023 at 8:55 pm
Rod Munch Says:
Oh man, on an unnamed national ranking he’s top 10! Now that’s some cred, and you should give him a 8-year $600-million dollar deal based off that!
————
How you feelin Mush? Reality set in yet or you still a math’s dunce? What was your prediction again 6 wins
HAHAHahaha. Your guy wasn’t even seen worthy the kneel to end today’s dominatong win.
Baker has TOTALLY sunk your battleship
NO high draft pick
NO time for Kyle on the field
making Bowles look like a coach of the year candidate
#TEAMPOSITIVEMUSHISANIT
December 24th, 2023 at 9:18 pm
Jack Clark you burger flipper…why that hate on Baker? He got the Browns to the playoffs and he was released for a womanizer …I hope Baker jumps to the Falcons and stomps your little band of pirates if that’s how you feel. Mist on here are not backing Baker, get real !!!
December 24th, 2023 at 9:55 pm
I tend to agree, let’s see the rest of the season unfold before we make him our Franchise QB. He’s a good quarterback but maybe not quite great. Franchise QB’s don’t consistently game after game hold the ball too long and take bad sacks. In a game against a playoff opponent those type of plays can lose ballgames. If you’re going to pony up 10’s of millions of dollars over multiple years for a quarterback you better be as sure as you can be that you have your guy. I don’t know if we can say that yet.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:00 pm
Some are never satisfie, Complaining all the time, Never played or coach in the NFL but has all the answers banging on a keyboard, Reminds me of the political parties in Washington and across the country.
December 24th, 2023 at 11:47 pm
Great game today Baker!! Keep it up!! Go Bucs!!
December 24th, 2023 at 11:54 pm
Ding, Ding, Ding – it’s the dinner-bell – It’s meal time Rusty
“Rusty Shackleford Says:
December 24th, 2023 at 3:40 pm
Jaguars 28, Bucs 17. Jacksonville will out-muscle Tampa on both sides of the line and will simply bully the Bucs in the second half. Sorry. Wish I was wrong and I will come back and eat crow if the Bucs do prove me wrong.”
December 25th, 2023 at 12:22 pm
Baker and the Buccaneers will be going to the playoffs, drop the bag$!!!!
December 25th, 2023 at 12:25 pm
Baker and the Buccaneers will be going to the playoffs, drop the bag$!!!! Merry 🎅 Christmas to all!!!!!