Report: Baker Mayfield Contract Extension Talks “Are Finished”
July 28th, 2026
Joe’s not buying it, but it’s out there.
Reporter Greg Auman of FoxSports.com writes Baker Mayfield and the Bucs are no longer negotiating a new deal to keep him in Tampa after his 2026 contract expires.
“Any talks of a new contract for Baker Mayfield and the Bucs are finished, and he will play the 2026 season on his current expiring deal and the two sides will revisit things from there. Potentially a major free agent in March.” Auman wrote on X.
Joe believes the Bucs and Mayfield camps might have put this message out there to kill media chatter as they work behind the scenes on a new contract. It wouldn’t be the first time that has happened.
Obviously, Mayfield’s agent knows what he wants and the Bucs are aware. Both sides have a desire to get a deal done and that’s always the biggest hurdle.
Could negotiations re-start/change in a hurry if Vita Vea is traded and his contract comes off the books? Absolutely.
Do the Bucs hold the franchise tag option, roughly $50 million next season? Of course.
July 28th, 2026 at 12:28 pm
Something stinks at One Buc.
July 28th, 2026 at 12:29 pm
Smart move. More money for rebuild. I wonder who else will request trade now.
July 28th, 2026 at 12:30 pm
“Do the Bucs hold the franchise tag option, roughly $50 million next season?“
Means nothing right now, he’d have to get through this season playing at a level to earn the franchise tag in order for it to be in play.
Idk why everybody is making the assumption that’s a top option and of course, there’s an offer on the table and the hold up is Baker won’t take it.
Here the wild part, I’d be almost certain it’s at least double what Vea is making right now +incentives
July 28th, 2026 at 12:30 pm
You can’t lose Mike Evans and Lavonte David, have Vita Vea ask for a trade, and have Mayfield go into the season as a lame duck starting QB.
This has shades of 2008.
Glazers could step in and make sure something gets done.
The franchise tag is fool’s gold. That’s a $48M cap hit. They’ll want no part of it. Most likely scenario is a tear it down, rebuild in 2027.
July 28th, 2026 at 12:30 pm
Run Baker Run 🏃
What a MASSIVE KLUSTER PUCK !
Hey it’s not like they didn’t have any warnings
Coen
Evans
VV is wanting OUT !
🤮🤮🤮🤮🤮
July 28th, 2026 at 12:32 pm
I said this would happen. This will be his last year here and he’ll take Bowles with him. I’ve been saying since before FA that this team would not break the bank on any player. And here we are. Enjoy it Baker fans…17 games left of this nonsense.
July 28th, 2026 at 12:36 pm
Vea off the books? How many more will need to be “off the books” to sign this mid level QB to maintain this level of mediocrity?
If you can get value for Vita, do it. But don’t trade him just to save enough money to sign Baker!
July 28th, 2026 at 12:40 pm
Let’s not forget the NFL is big business. For most owners it’s “business first” ! Team Glazer is no exception!
July 28th, 2026 at 12:43 pm
That’s awesome! Sounds looks and speaks volumes that we’re getting a new coach that won’t be stuck with players with huge contracts and he will be able to build us a great new team to be proud of hell yeah Go Bucs! 2027 well played
July 28th, 2026 at 12:43 pm
Bee Says:
July 28th, 2026 at 12:32 pm
“I said this would happen. This will be his last year here and he’ll take Bowles with him. I’ve been saying since before FA that this team would not break the bank on any player. And here we are. Enjoy it Baker fans…17 games left of this nonsense.”
My oh my. What will you say if he has a great season and does what ME did and leave the poor management at TB for a lot better team? Or better yet, what will you do with all your spare time when Baker leaves and isn’t to blame for many horrible seasons starting 2026/2027.
July 28th, 2026 at 12:43 pm
This team is no closer to a SB than it was when they picked Baker off the garbage heap. Not really sure what they are building other than a team that hovers around .500
July 28th, 2026 at 12:45 pm
C’mon JL…trade VV and spend the savings on Baker.
July 28th, 2026 at 12:49 pm
Man, talk about panic in the streets! Folks, relax. David retiring – expected. Mayfield contract extension – inevitable and it will get sorted out. Vea – he had Suh in his ear. A trade would not be the worst case scenario and the Bucs would free up cap space and get a couple more draft picks next year. The only head scratcher so far is the Evans departure. Everything else is typical of a NFL franchise. Every one of the 32 teams goes through this from time to time. Hey, most readers on this site were expecting a losing season anyway. Just relax, and let’s see how it plays out!
July 28th, 2026 at 12:50 pm
They’re finished as far as I’ve been concerned for some time. Baker is playing this season, so I don’t care if it’s with a new deal, or not. Time to talk ball instead of player contracts.
July 28th, 2026 at 12:51 pm
Well we certainly have drama big time now.
Presently looks to be a total rebuild to me. I know this if Baker gets injured which is is likely the way he plays Browning likely a disaster for the team. Who knows I still say they franchasie Baker.
I don’t see the hold up. The Bucs will have to pay 50 million that isn’t going down, but may go up.
July 28th, 2026 at 12:52 pm
BF2023
If I’m wrong, I’m wrong. I’ll admit it, no problem. But what’s more likely to happen? Baker to play like he always does or for him to play at MVP level for 17 games? Seems to me the Bycs feel the same way or they would’ve paid him more. They’re comfortable with him leaving.
Keep in mind, an ok or average season won’t be enough to secure $50+ million annually. 8-9 won’t get it done. Its NFC Championship or bust.
July 28th, 2026 at 1:05 pm
Hey guys, there are 31 other teams in the league. They have good players too. We are a long way from a SB. If it were not for our horrible NFC South companions we would be playing for draft position this year. As it is we are playing for “one and done” this year. Sorry Pollys that’s the way it is. And BTW I’m just as much of a Buc fan as you are- -just realistic.
The Bucs should trade or sign what will be good for them in 5 years.
July 28th, 2026 at 1:07 pm
If this plays out, and Baker doesn’t sign, I think it’s best for all parties. He will be trying to prove his worth and the Bucs will get another year to evaluate. That is, unless those mysterious injuries reoccur and the Boi’s excuse matching fuels up with no fault fuel.
July 28th, 2026 at 1:15 pm
The person they should extend is YaYa. Right now if he is on the open market he is going to get 17 to 20 Million. If he explodes this year he will be closer to 30 million. sign him now on the cheap.
July 28th, 2026 at 1:15 pm
GREAT NEWS!!!!!!!!!!
baker needs to prove himself!!!!!!
now extend the player who won you a ring!!!!!!
GO BUCS!!!!
July 28th, 2026 at 1:16 pm
Baker has great year and pulls a Vea and asks for a trade next offseason,,, Baker Mayfield , your 2027 Houston Texan QB
July 28th, 2026 at 1:16 pm
Lock him up! Lock him up!
July 28th, 2026 at 1:17 pm
Sorry guys, I wouldn’t pay Baker top dollars, for 2 reasons
1- The style he plays is a dangerous style, and when he is injured he plays like sh*t, example las season
2- He is not young, and next year there will be QB on the market via draft or free agency.
I support JL 100% ion this moves, and I am not a big fun of him.
July 28th, 2026 at 1:17 pm
If it’s true it is fine He can do whatever he wants at the end of the season. Bowles should be gone and we can get the next losing coach. The coaches people think they want here will not even consider coming to this franchise Trask isn’t coming back and if they draft a QB they will never develop him.
July 28th, 2026 at 1:18 pm
Fire Licht. This is ridiculous.
Baker will leave. People will be shocked at what the market is for him. The Bucs would have gotten a hometown discount.
Vea. Gone. Probably for nothing. Or a crappy trade.
Evans. He left. Why? Bowles and Licht.
What kind of competent GM lets this happen?
July 28th, 2026 at 1:20 pm
They need to stop f’ing around and get Baker’s contract done! And then do what it takes to keep Vea. Build and keep a championship team and STOP losing good players at key positions!
July 28th, 2026 at 1:20 pm
The franchise tag which would put a $50 million cap hit on the budget? Dumb to do that.
July 28th, 2026 at 1:21 pm
if there ever was a Player that would do a Prove it deal-it is Baker! Go Bucs!!
July 28th, 2026 at 1:21 pm
We shall see. I do not buy any of this.
July 28th, 2026 at 1:22 pm
Trade Vita for Anthony Richardson, and we can solve two problems at once, Good bye #6…….
July 28th, 2026 at 1:25 pm
HeavyE , I’m pretty sure the colts would make that trade in the next 15 minutes if possible ,,, AR worse than Trask
July 28th, 2026 at 1:27 pm
Can’t help but wonder what Booger McFarlane knew when he stated that he knew something last year about the Bucs when things were on the outside going well. Can Bowles survive this situation? Interesting.
July 28th, 2026 at 1:29 pm
ZZbucs that’s a great assessment. I’ve said it a bunch I’ve become a baker fan because of his dangerous style of play but like ZZ said it will hurt him. Also Father Time will take his legs before his arm and then what he’s not a pocket passer. He does better on the move. The one thing we know for sure about baker is he’s going inconsistent. Like any QB give him a good run game , ST and a good defense and he can be successful.
July 28th, 2026 at 1:32 pm
Was reading another site yesterday and I believe the Bucs will have a hard time signing players if they don’t get the QB position solidified. YaYa said for one, you got to the this deal done for the organization and for players to know who is guiding the team, he is all in on Baker.
If they are trying to tank like some “know it all’s” on this board, then why not trade him right now. Trade Vita and Baker, you would have a great haul of draft picks.
Jets and/or Pittsburgh would jump all over that trade. I do think that Licht is mishandling this, but it could be by design or management/ownership Jooness.
I wish they would trade him
July 28th, 2026 at 1:33 pm
If Baker plays good he will get a new contract by Christmas. If he plays like he did in the last half of last season, he will not be offered a large contract.
July 28th, 2026 at 1:36 pm
posturing
July 28th, 2026 at 1:38 pm
I hope Jason had a great family vacation before training camp began ….
Dumpster fire 🔥
July 28th, 2026 at 1:42 pm
Teams I would root for if Baker is QB next season, Jags, Houston, Minn, Giants , Rams ,Fish, Bucs (not Pitts, Jets, Panthers, Saints)
July 28th, 2026 at 1:43 pm
Do not I repeat do not pay baker it’ll be the worst choice of Jason career.
Vea is worth the money the next 3 years
July 28th, 2026 at 1:46 pm
Yeah, if the Bucs call on Thursday offering $52 million a year, Baker’s agent isn’t going to go “Nope, we said before camp started and camp has started.”
July 28th, 2026 at 1:49 pm
^ Yep Daily, but i guess if hes that serious about it, then f it, let the season play out…..I want Baker but he’s being a maroon at times with this stuff.
July 28th, 2026 at 1:52 pm
Excellent!!!
Todd and Baker are not a match.Todd does his job half a$$$. Not benching Baker after the by week was inexcusable. Not doing that cost us Mike and the infamous division title. SMH
Baker will be smart to wait until the end of the season. If Todd is not fire watch and see how many players exit One Bucs Palace.
July 28th, 2026 at 1:56 pm
I’m ok if Baker has to play without a new contract. He seems to play best when he has something to prove. If he has a great season the price goes way up and the Bucs have no one to replace him.
July 28th, 2026 at 1:58 pm
Anyone get hurt yet tripping in a OBP hallway? Morrison?
July 28th, 2026 at 2:00 pm
If Baker has a great year, they’ll franchise tag him and if he does go to another team we’ll be compensated with a #1 pick.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:01 pm
Jury is out on the rookie QB from Kansas.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:02 pm
If there was ever a year to get a young quarterback 2027 is the year the draft will be loaded. I am pretty sure Bowles best years are behind him. That being said unless we when the division with a 7-10 record we will be selecting in the top ten nfl 2027 draft.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:03 pm
Are the big guys being strategic or cheap??
July 28th, 2026 at 2:03 pm
That’s an 80 mil FT cap hit for ’27 @Wisco.
They won’t use the FT unless they are certain they are resigning him to a long term deal to push the dead cap money into future years.
From how they structured his cap money, it doesn’t look like they had much intention of resigning him. They left all 30 mil of dead cap in the one year.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:15 pm
I love players that were on a sinking ship trying to grab the booty before it hits the ocean floor.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:24 pm
Sounds like ownership and Licht are just trying to get through this season so they can bring in a new coach and QB next year. The re build will start next year.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:24 pm
The Bucs are toast and it’s self-inflicted. Now to get ready for fantasy season…
July 28th, 2026 at 2:27 pm
Going into camp I was good with a couple of options:
1) a resign for a couple of years which would give him a healthy bump and into the top 12 highest paid QBs, as long as it was only for a couple of guaranteed years.
2) let him play the year out
I’m happy the organization clearly sees his talents for what they are. If the numbers are right, so it, if not we’ll see how it plays out.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:30 pm
Jalen Carter DT just got paid 152 million dollar contract from the Eagles. Vita not getting that kinda money as he is older but I wonder what this does as far as him negotiating more money.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:32 pm
Baker is going the Kirk Cousins route to guaranteed max pay days. Tag is $47million next year, then another $47-50million the following….thats $100 million in two years. Then he’ll get a solid $150-180 million on his next contract guaranteed plus the ability to squeeze out 1-2 yr deal after that. This is business, Baker is betting on himself and if he avoids major injury, someone will pay him.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:33 pm
VV
25 million for two years
But I am okay trading him for a 3rd round pick and move on
July 28th, 2026 at 2:36 pm
My biggest fear:
Bucs let Baker walk
In a desperate move to remain nationally relevant they give up a 1st round pick to Pittsburgh for Mike Tomlin
Baker signs with the Rams after Stafford retires
Tomlin does what Tomlin does. Which for the last decade has been pretty much what Todd does.
With great coaching Baker wins a ring.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:44 pm
Trade them both now! START THE REBUILDING
July 28th, 2026 at 2:45 pm
On the bright side.. the Licht/Bowles experience is about to end.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:45 pm
Many years ago my old boss, a New Yorker and Giants fan told me the Bucs have the stupidest fan base in the NFL. True.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:50 pm
Pretty obvious, what’s up. Bucs will trade Baker and VV for Purdy, just to wind up Evans.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:51 pm
I hope this is true. Making a inconsistent player play out his contract before giving him a new deal is just the smart thing to do. No point in paying him 50mill a year only for him to crap all over himself once again at the end of the season.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:51 pm
Who cares ? 8-9 does nothing but get you a #15 pick in the draft go for broke and get a top 10 pick grab you a good young Qb and have a extra 1st and make a extra 2nd for Via let the reboot start
July 28th, 2026 at 2:53 pm
Man the off season is going great, can’t wait to the see the season full of players who don’t want to be there.
Man the team is imploding.
Baker has been consistent, once training camp starts he doesn’t want a distraction of contract talk. To me it’s clear that was his way of saying if you want me here get it done. Show me your confidence.
Well the front office is making it clear: Clear out big contracts, trade for picks and start everything over next year.
I guess the next move is tank for draft posision. Ugh
July 28th, 2026 at 2:54 pm
Reedoo,
True, Bucs fans are stupid… well at least, the half that are transplants from up north.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:55 pm
vita is 31 making 17.5mil
deforest buckner is 32 making 23 mil
bump him up to 23mil licht!!!!!!!…thats 5.5 mil raise..its not like baker asking for a 20mil raise!!!!
GO BUCS!!!!
July 28th, 2026 at 2:56 pm
I would run away as fast as I could from this prophetic franchise!
July 28th, 2026 at 2:58 pm
Sounds like VV’s trade demands may have caused some sort of decision-making delay in Baker’s contract extension which to me is understandable. JL or TB should not be blamed for this.
July 28th, 2026 at 2:59 pm
Yeah, I think Baker is looking for a long term more guaranteed money contract. Like 6yrs $300+m with $200+m guaranteed. (basically a 4yr fully guaranteed deal)
The Bucs can sit and be patient –
July 28th, 2026 at 3:00 pm
If the O-line stays mostly healthy and rookies nail their routes, I think Baker will have a great year. I would say his best year in the NFL, but Evans’ leaving is a loss.
July 28th, 2026 at 3:15 pm
Let him test out free agency in 2027 and see if there’s a market ,,, if there is then we ride the next 3 or 4 years with Geno Smith baby!!!! Let’s go Geno!!!!!
July 28th, 2026 at 3:15 pm
I hope it’s true.
If Baker balls out, wins games when they actually matter, then great, pay him.
If Baker sucks yet again, it means everyone is getting fired and you’re starting over.
There is literally no benefit to giving Baker a huge new deal coming off an awful year where he got the entire offensive staff fired and singlehandedly cost the team a chance at the plays, and sucked so bad he made Mike Evans leave, and now even Vita Vea doesn’t want to be here. More people wanted to play with Winston as compared to what Baker has done.
But win some games that matters, show up big in big moments, and that all changes.
July 28th, 2026 at 3:17 pm
I like Baker. I hope he retires as a Buc. But I think this is the path that is in the best interest of others parties as his true value will be of greater certainty at the end of the season.
July 28th, 2026 at 3:17 pm
Looks like the Bucs have decided to move on from Mayfield. At least that’s what they’re telling him (along with all of his teammates) with the vote of no-confidence.
Looking forward to this season even more now. Baker is going to do his best to make it entertaining for Bucs fans!
July 28th, 2026 at 3:17 pm
If they feel that way about Mayfield, they should trade him to the Jets and go full tank mode this season, hoping to get a top quarterback in the draft.
July 28th, 2026 at 3:20 pm
if anyone in the JBF fanbase happens to encounter Stpetematt today please be extra kind to him – he is very sad because he finally realizes that the Bucs are not going 12-5 and are not winning any playoff games – and just last week his mom told him the Easter Bunny is not real so he is having a bad week – but on the bright side he will not have to hustle up Bucs ticket money by washing mom’s minivan and mowing the lawn – he can devote more time to practicing playing flute for the Gibbs HS marching band
July 28th, 2026 at 3:27 pm
LMAO! This is great. The Antibakes and Tankers are in full victory lap! Go Boys!
July 28th, 2026 at 3:28 pm
Blow it up
July 28th, 2026 at 3:28 pm
I’ma be honest joe I don’t trust nothing you say when comes to pending free agents and resigning I’m still not over the Mike Evans ordeal
July 28th, 2026 at 3:29 pm
can-we-get-rid-of-licht-please Says:
July 28th, 2026 at 3:20 pm
if anyone in the JBF fanbase happens to encounter Stpetematt today please be extra kind to him – he is very sad because he finally realizes that the Bucs are not going 12-5 and are not winning any playoff games – and just last week his mom told him the Easter Bunny is not real so he is having a bad week – but on the bright side he will not have to hustle up Bucs ticket money by washing mom’s minivan and mowing the lawn – he can devote more time to practicing playing flute for the Gibbs HS marching band
——–
A lot of people claim message boards on pretty much any site ends up toxic, but I’m glad to see there’s nice people still out there who are looking out for others.
God bless!
July 28th, 2026 at 3:37 pm
I don’t see a franchise tag happening. A franchise tag is 100% guaranteed cold hard cash. Plus Baker has a $30 million dollar void year in 27′. That would be a $80 million dollar cap hit for one player. So I guess both sides of this negotiation aren’t risk averse. For Baker he coupd get a career ending injury or just hurt his value with poor play. The Franchise seems to think they can outbid anyone. Simply based on no state income tax and Baker is already established here.
July 28th, 2026 at 3:43 pm
Too much drama already. This season is starting to look like a throw away. UGH.
-David
July 28th, 2026 at 3:51 pm
Majority of Buc fans were already unhappy the Bucs kept Bowles. Mike Evans most likely largest reason he left was because the Bucs kept Bowles, now the Bucs are having contract issues with arguably their best defensive player and their QB.
July 28th, 2026 at 4:01 pm
SO if they decide to hold off this year, he performs well and they want to tag him next year that would be roughly $80 million cap hit in 2027 (unless I am getting this wrong). $50 million for the franchise tag and the $30 million in dead money/carryover cap charges. I feel like they are painting themselves in a corner and should just get this done.
July 28th, 2026 at 4:02 pm
How about if we trade Vita for S.Sanders, this way we will have a decent, backup QB and a plan for next year.
July 28th, 2026 at 4:05 pm
Why do so many minds short circuit when someone is actually required to live up to the contract they signed and prove their worth for another?
Has honor lost all value in today’s society?
Ok, it has. This is 2026, the era of the lie. But it’s nice to see honor and dignity at least explored from time to time.
Hats off to Licht if he stands his ground. Didn’t think he had it in him.
If Baker plays well he’ll get his just due. If he does not …
July 28th, 2026 at 4:05 pm
trade both. if Vea leaves we dare runs instead of pass! cud work out better! 🙂
July 28th, 2026 at 4:09 pm
he will play better without the extension..
July 28th, 2026 at 4:20 pm
….and the Bucs will price themselves out of Mayfield in the process.
July 28th, 2026 at 4:26 pm
So if they want to pay him a gazzilion dollars his agent won’t take the money?
July 28th, 2026 at 4:30 pm
They won’t use the franchise tag when the cap hit is $80M. They’re essentially going to do to Baker what they did to Evans – play the loyalty card and no income taxes – and lose him in free agency. If they had any legit intention of keeping Mayfield, they would have gotten an extension done.
July 28th, 2026 at 4:31 pm
I love the direction the team is taking. I like Vea but he’s getting old. Getting rid of Mike and LVD and Vea will remove almost a hundred years off our roster. Removing Baker will remove over 120 years. Draft a QB, play Capehart and Nacho at nose, trade Vea and we’ll be okay.
July 28th, 2026 at 4:35 pm
5-12 signed or not signed.
July 28th, 2026 at 4:36 pm
Hey everyone, wow such a fuss. Let’s just say this, Both sides know where they stand. Ain’t nobody gonna change nothing from the outside at this point. Baker said he’d play under the Franchise tag next year to 2027 47 million. So really is Baker Eyeing a bigger prize elsewhere, like Mike ?? He sounds like the type right about now..more more more. Team left town and I want more.
July 28th, 2026 at 4:47 pm
5-12 and a top 5 pick
Trade VV, Trade Baker,
Clean the Licht’s house.
Time for a new era of the Creamsicle slide
Fans get what they have been asking for and
The Glazers lose millions in ticket and stadium revenue while they are trying to get more money from the TSA.
I guess if they are under the cap by 50million they will still profit
July 28th, 2026 at 4:48 pm
JA Says:
July 28th, 2026 at 4:05 pm
Why do so many minds short circuit when someone is actually required to live up to the contract they signed and prove their worth for another?
Has honor lost all value in today’s society?
Ok, it has. This is 2026, the era of the lie. But it’s nice to see honor and dignity at least explored from time to time.
Hats off to Licht if he stands his ground. Didn’t think he had it in him.
If Baker plays well he’ll get his just due. If he does not …
Baker has a history of being willing to “prove it”. He walked on at Texas Tech. He earned the starting QB position. He left Texas Tech when they didn’t offer him a full ride and he walked on at OU. He earned his scholarship there and brought home a Heisman to boot. Of course being the first pick is bad news when you get picked by the Browns. His first year there was decent considering how bad their offensive line was. A few years later he basically walked on at Tampa Bay for 4 million. His average pay for 4 years is 104 million. Think about that for a minute. My guess is he will have a very good season and franchise tag or not he will be moving on to a team that is solid sans a decent QB.
July 28th, 2026 at 4:51 pm
Honestly, I don’t understand ownership’s position here, if they play this season out and Mayfield has an average year. they’re still gonna win five or six games. That’s not bad enough to get a top draft pick. They’ve gotta make a decision. Do we think we have a chance to make the playoffs or should we blow this thing up and tank, looks to me like they’re straddling the line afraid to make a decision so basically wasting a year. In the end the fans get screwed.
July 28th, 2026 at 4:55 pm
So the brass is taking the hard line against the last 2 remaining team leaders? Rotflmfao, yeah let’s see how this turns out.
July 28th, 2026 at 5:01 pm
The JETS are NOT interested in BAKER. They would NOT take BAKER in a “heartbeat.” They already own THREE 2027 1st-Round PICKS. They. Are. TANKING. Pittsburgh does NOT have the money, and more than likely, will also be DRAFTING a Quarterback in the next draft. Everyone wants to act as if THIS is the end of the world. RIDICULOUS. It just is what it is, and you people have just not been paying attention, (&/or) REFUSED to listen to reason (as usual, you just listen to what YOU want to hear). Baker is currently UNDER CONTRACT for this season. The only difference is you how have a 370lb 32-year old NT to blame for it this time, when Baker does “Baker-like” things. I mean, come on. I said it two months ago, just wait for the first high-ankle sprain, or groin pull during TRAINING CAMP, and all these people will be in all-out PANIC MODE. LoL. After beating the 11-13 ‘WINS’ Drum for this team all off-season. Lmao. And, it IS a “smart” move for the Bucs to play-it out… Even though, THEY DID OFFER HIM. It’s BAKER who has refused to freakin’ SIGN-IT.
July 28th, 2026 at 5:01 pm
Rocket10: Exactly. This is the Buccaneers patented “No Strategy” strategy!
July 28th, 2026 at 5:10 pm
Like I’ve been saying, if you’re 2-6 or 3-5 heading to Chicago before the trade deadline and the Bye-Week… You immediately start SELLING everything you can. Total Rebuild beginning immediately, with the right HC and GM (young and aggressive modern day NFL). Sign a Vet Bridge-QB on the CHEAP. Doesn’t matter WHO it is (just CHEAP)… It’s irrelevant, because you’re TANKING 2027 anyway!!!! BUILD. THE. ROSTER. FIRST. Hopefully, if they are BAD, then they are bad enough to get into the Top 3-5 and they can start with Jeremiah Smith. You don’t have to burn a pick REACHING for a QB, just to be drafting a QB. If it’s a can’t miss, generational talent, THEN go for it!!!!
July 28th, 2026 at 5:16 pm
Bucs are in a tough spot with Vea and Baker. You could trade both Juno start your rebuild or sign both and pray we are the team that started 6-2 not the team who finished 2-7. Very very difficult situation.
July 28th, 2026 at 5:17 pm
MelvinJunior Says:
July 28th, 2026 at 5:01 pm
“The only difference is you how have a 370lb 32-year old NT to blame for it this time, when Baker does “Baker-like” things. I mean, come on. I said it two months ago, just wait for the first high-ankle sprain, or groin pull during TRAINING CAMP, and all these people will be in all-out PANIC MODE. LoL. After beating the 11-13 ‘WINS’ Drum for this team all off-season. Lmao. And, it IS a “smart” move for the Bucs to play-it out… Even though, THEY DID OFFER HIM. It’s BAKER who has refused to freakin’ SIGN-IT.”
Baker’s average pay for his 4 years at TB is 21 million per year. The got a great deal with him on both contracts. It’s an insult to offer something drastically below market value. As you may recall, Baker said their offer was way below what he wanted.
July 28th, 2026 at 5:17 pm
Todd Bowles might get dumped into Tampa Bay after this season. Evans and now Baker and Vita?
8-9 here we come baby!
July 28th, 2026 at 5:17 pm
The bucs has to smart about this another 8-9 9-8 season Todd Bowles is gone. Even if they win 10 games and get knocked out of the playoffs in the first round Bowles is still gone. And what about the new HC is he going want Baker as his quarterback knowing he’s going towards the end of carrer wich means he’s gonna be more pressured to win . And that means he’s going to get fired so it’s better to wait especially with the franchise tag in your back pocket. If the bucs get to a conference championship game at least then use the tag on him to see if you can get to a superbowl the next year. But it’s 10 quarterbacks coming out . I don’t know how to pronounce all of they’re names but I do know the schools . Miami, Old Miss , Sam Leavitt Lsu, UCLA, USC , South Carolina, Oklahoma , Texas A$M , Oklahoma ST,
July 28th, 2026 at 5:19 pm
Derek Carr was a better QB than Baker, let that sink in, Cousins had a way better career than Baker, so many act like he’s better than Andy freaking Dalton, and he’s not, Baker had 1 good season in 8 years, he’s the definition of an average QB, and y’all act like he’s a superstar SMDH
July 28th, 2026 at 5:19 pm
….more shouting fairy tales from Melvin and the Blue Notes.
July 28th, 2026 at 5:22 pm
And that’s not counting Donta Moore and Manning wich I know we ain’t getting them because one is a business deal in the Manning kid wich I don’t think he’s that good and the other one is a good quarterback. So you don’t have to tank some of those guys will fall to the second round. Baker needs to go to a team that’s ready to win a superbowl not a up and coming roster like the bucs because he has to do to much because of how young we are on offense.
July 28th, 2026 at 5:26 pm
I don’t see my post…dont pay him
July 28th, 2026 at 5:35 pm
This website had an earnest group of Trask loyalists who wanted him as the Bucs QB. He can be had very cheap in 2027. Seems that no NFL team wants him. Although Baker is well regarded by Bucs management and the Tampa fan base, there are plenty of lunatics here who pretend they know NFL QB talent. Reasonable people watching that O line mess last year would come to the obvious conclusion that Baker didn’t have much of a chance in the back half of the season.
July 28th, 2026 at 5:37 pm
Guzzie55 Says:
July 28th, 2026 at 5:19 pm
Derek Carr was a better QB than Baker, let that sink in, Cousins had a way better career than Baker, so many act like he’s better than Andy freaking Dalton, and he’s not, Baker had 1 good season in 8 years, he’s the definition of an average QB, and y’all act like he’s a superstar SMDH
Different teams, different teammates and yet somehow it’s appropriate to base a player’s skill level by win/loss records and td’s thrown. Delusional thinking.
July 28th, 2026 at 5:50 pm
I don’t see Baker taking the gas off even if this is accurate. He has to prove he is worth the money still. Its a what have you done lately league.
July 28th, 2026 at 6:02 pm
You also weren’t buying that Mike Evan’s wouldn’t have a new contract either….
July 28th, 2026 at 6:10 pm
Let him walk nfl players way overpaid to throw around a piece of leather…
July 28th, 2026 at 7:30 pm
You know the reason teams don’t tank? It’s because except for once in a generation, you aren’t guaranteed to get a franchise QB in the first round. In fact, you’re more likely to waste the pick if you go that route.
Let Baker play out this year and see where things lie.
July 28th, 2026 at 7:36 pm
I hope all the pessimism doesn’t progress to “let’s hope we lose every game so we’ll get Arch Manning in the next draft.” For most of us following the Bucs isn’t a life or death thing. We have club level seats and they ain’t cheap. We’d love another Super Bowl run of course. But being competitive is acceptable. The years we had a joke team were no fun. Young Manning might pull what his uncle did and refuse to play for a non-marquee team. Or he could be another Tebow, lacking the mental quickness to make adjustments against NFL coverages. If we go 9-7 and win the division that would be better than what many fan bases will get. They have enough talent for that, injuries are always critical. So are breaks. Root for wins, not losses.
July 28th, 2026 at 8:36 pm
So stupid. Pay him and if he has a crap year cut him or trade him. Last time I said this people were like “who will trade for him if he has a bad year?” Steelers… they know they’re not winning anything with him, yet for 2 years they paid the man. Fans know he’s washed up and the team brings him back like he’s a MVP of the Super Bowl. Rams would take him, Atlanta, Miami, Jets, Cardinals….. the list is huge for teams that have sucked for years that would be willing to give him a chance. The Bucs did and got 2 playoff appearances, a win in the playoffs and half way stayed relevant while in cap hell. Kirk Cousins has made more money than anyone and can’t win playoff games. 2 teams paid Flacco last year when he was a giant hot mess!! QB show following Flacco because he thinks he’s top tier in the NFL…. He wasn’t top tier when Baltimore won the Super Bowl with him. He had one good playoff run and ROBBED Baltimore out of 100 mill. Someone would take Baker!
July 28th, 2026 at 8:36 pm
Went from the Todd Blob to a legit Circus
July 28th, 2026 at 8:44 pm
Now we got to listen to Guzzie say Derek Carr is better than Baker ,, Carr’s career playoff record 0-1,,, Cousins career playoff record is 1-4 ,, Bakers is 2-3,,, both of the other guys also got paid ,, in Cousins case got paid 3 times ! Baker took Cleveland to the playoffs for god sakes ,,, they had a parade cause it hadn’t happened in a while ,,, heck they hadn’t won a game in a while . You guys want Geno Smith or Brissett then keep this nonsense going ,,, 50 Million for a quality NFL starter is the norm,, pay him and Vea and let’s get this season going
July 28th, 2026 at 8:53 pm
Carrs total earnings 204 million , Cousins 341 million,,, Bakers earned 131 million,,, Pay the man 50/4
July 28th, 2026 at 8:54 pm
If baker is signed now or after the 2026 season, what’s the difference? Hes playing this year, and if he plays lights out – Bucs cough up cash. They know it, Baker knows it. Smarter business move for both sides.
Are we worried Baker will run off to a higher bidder in FA?
July 28th, 2026 at 9:03 pm
Changing that 11-6 to 9-8 at best
July 28th, 2026 at 9:07 pm
Doubt Baker likes the perception that he aint serious about his deadline
July 28th, 2026 at 9:08 pm
Might as well just re sign AB lol
July 28th, 2026 at 10:06 pm
And, trust me… The Bucs offered Baker a more than fair deal for both sides, or they just wouldn’t had offered him ANYTHING AT ALL. I mean, BE REAL. I told you people all along, that BAKER was NOT taking this supposed big “Team-Friendly” Deal, that you all kept guaranteeing. And, mostly because, ALL you had to do was JUST pay attention (use your HEAD instead of your EMOTIONS), and look at HIS HISTORY. He didn’t take any “DISCOUNTS” with his current Bucs Contract (he took EVERY penny he could GET), and HE DEMANDED (Dak$) to reset the “QB-market” on his 2nd-contract in CLEVELAND. Annnnddd, His OWN AGENT said the exact same thing during last season with the BUCS… That, THERE WILL NOT BE ANY DISCOUNTS. And, that they’d be seeking VERY TIP-TOP of the market $$$$$. Period. End of Story. Baker’s own EGO, will not allow HIM to learn any lessons. It is WHO he is. Wake TF UP. He has NEVER been this “Team-FIRST” Guy, no matter WHERE he’s been. It’s just that YOU PEOPLE, continue to choose to live inside of this very weird (“adult”) BAKER FANTASYLAND. It’s entirely, DELUSIONAL
July 28th, 2026 at 10:24 pm
I mean, Baker will have to have a MONSTER SEASON if he’s going to get anything close to where HE wants to be. Cause, that free agency QB-market will NOT be what some people in here, thinks it’ll be. There will probably be about 8 QB’s drafted within the first 2-Rounds of the 2027-Draft. And, most teams are going to be looking at it as, am I going to give a ‘beaten up and banged up’ aging 32-YEAR OLD $200-MILLION+Guaranteed ($60-MIL+ per year), ORRRRR about $10-MILLION on a young stud, and then just continue with BUILDING MY ROSTER. It will be a VERY EASY decision to make for most teams. There will only be about 6-7 teams (including the Bucs) in the QB-market to begin with, and the overwhelming majority, will be DRAFTING ONE, in the 1st-Round. NOBODY is paying $60-MIL PER LONGTERM (as a “bridge”), AND drafting one, just to have SIT THERE, and burning-up YEARS off of his ‘rookie-level’ DEAL. That’s just NOT Happenin. So, BEST Ole Bake can hope for, is to get 2-DESPERATE TEAMS, who just have to have him… AFTER, having the season of HIS LIFE. Goooood. LUCK.
July 28th, 2026 at 10:38 pm
Sanity prevails at One Buc. There is zero need to sign Baker longer right this minute. That puts the Bucs in a win-win. Baker balls out, franchise tag and negotiate next offseason. If he stinks, cut bait.
July 28th, 2026 at 10:39 pm
Oh that’s great!! Let’s just see what old BM6 can do when pressure is applied to his career. He will play smarter as in not take as many hits and ball out in 2026!! He will again be in the MVP conversation and if he stays healthy be one of the finalists. And the team will rise to his play. This is going to be our year. The bad thing is, we will have to pay well into the $50’s because it will be obvious who has the talent at the qb position after 2026 is done. Mark it down
July 28th, 2026 at 11:36 pm
Did someone actually say they wanted Anthony Richardson as compensation for VV to replace Baker?
You’re either a troll or a massive gator homer. Richardson is another bust of a QB out of Gainesville, pretty much like all the rest.
If whoever you were are serious 1) i’m glad you’re not the GM and 2) seek help.
July 29th, 2026 at 1:08 am
Guzzie55 Says:
July 28th, 2026 at 5:19 pm
Derek Carr was a better QB than Baker, let that sink in, Cousins had a way better career than Baker, so many act like he’s better than Andy freaking Dalton, and he’s not, Baker had 1 good season in 8 years, he’s the definition of an average QB, and y’all act like he’s a superstar SMDH
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Hey Baker Boi(s), watch this…
Derek Carr was not better than Baker. In fact I’d rather have Baker over Carr at his peak. Carr was the most limp wristed QB in the NFL. I literally saw him end a game, on 4th and goal with no time left, and the guy threw the ball out of bounds because he didn’t want to hurt his stats. People who looked at box scores thought Carr was good – he wasn’t – he just played the game to boost his stats. When the Saints signed him to a big deal – so many people here were whining, while I was celebrating, and said at the time I’ll take Baker 100 out of 100 times over Carr, and I didn’t even like Baker.
So don’t go around ever brining up Carr as being superior to anyone. He’s more Mike Glennon than Baker Mayfield.
July 29th, 2026 at 3:19 am
Andy Dalton has 💯 had a MUCH BETTER career up to this point, than Baker. And, it’s not even CLOSE to being an argument.
July 29th, 2026 at 3:26 am
But, with the same knock… Just HORRIBLE in Primetime Games. Other than that, it’s not close. In a BRUTAL Division with a Defensive-HC.
July 29th, 2026 at 3:49 am
@ BucFan2023 Says: “It’s an insult to offer something drastically below market value. As you may recall, Baker said their offer was way below what he wanted.”
Oh, no… EVERYBODY’S just against BAKER then LoL. “Market Value” and what HE WANTS, are two entirely ’different’ THINGS. I am VERY confident that the BUCS offered HIM way more than what was FAIR 💯. It’s just the SAME as in Cleveland. Baker’s “Market Value” is just on a totally other planet, than Baker’s EGO. I guess, that Cleveland was just AGAINST HIM, too. Hell, EVERYONE IS. It’s all just a big conspiracy AGAINST BAKER. No. BAKER doesn’t have any “MARKET” at ALL right now, because HE is currently under CONTRACT with the BUCS. Period. End of Story.
July 29th, 2026 at 7:22 am
I see Munch is still suffering from BDS. Training camp begins and Baker is still living in Munch’s head. Should be fun to read all of the obsessive opinions.
July 29th, 2026 at 11:04 pm
Joe Bob Pigskin Says:
July 29th, 2026 at 7:22 am
I see Munch is still suffering from BDS. Training camp begins and Baker is still living in Munch’s head. Should be fun to read all of the obsessive opinions.
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I literally just defended Baker with my last post… it’s amazing how people only read what they want to read.