Jason Licht Speaks
August 1st, 2026
Biggest “stressor” is…
Bucs AC/DC-loving general manager Jason Licht spoke this week. But it appears you have to be connected to get Licht to talk publicly.
Steve Keim, the former shot-caller of the Cardinals and the guy who hired Licht to be his right-hand man in Arizona before Licht took his GM gig with the Bucs, is working for some media outfit called “Inside Football.”
There, Keim had a sitdown with his old friend Licht. The sitdown at One Buc Palace took place this week as Keim is wearing a Bucs training camp media badge and the background is the One Buc Palace bleachers.
Not once did the subject of Baker Mayfield’s contract grievance come up. Licht only spoke very briefly about Vea’s trade demand. So this may have been recorded Wednesday or perhaps Thursday before Mayfield popped off.
As for the pinch Licht finds himself and the Bucs in with Mayfield and Vea, he said, “My biggest stressor right now (in addition to negotiating contracts with Mayfield and Vea) is keeping this team together.” Licht was referring to several key starters who by the end of the 2027 season have contracts expiring, including Mayfield and Vea.
“The negative side of having great drafts is that you cannot pay everybody,” Licht said. “Keeping the gang together is probably my biggest stressor.”
As for Vea’s demand, Licht said the key to trying to work through it is to be fully genuine and honest with the player and hope the player and his agent are somewhat open-minded and/or flexible.
“Well, you try to just be upfront,” Licht said. “You try to maintain the relationship best you can. Sometimes it’s a little challenging.
“You were excellent at that [in Arizona] with the players, being up front. We had a couple instances where you had to tell them the way it was, but I also liked at the end the respect they had.”
With Mayfield, Licht only said the Bucs had an idea of what his ceiling was as a player when they signed him after the 2022 season. And Mayfield has lived up to that, Licht said, a top-shelf quarterback whom the Bucs have confidence in to lead the team to the promised land.
August 1st, 2026 at 6:18 am
Culture is in shambles
August 1st, 2026 at 6:29 am
Exactly what a good gm should be saying. 101 stuff.
August 1st, 2026 at 6:39 am
Bucs have for the most part always come thru for the players, compensation wise. I also believe they have always been up front with the player and agents throughout.
August 1st, 2026 at 6:41 am
He’s right about having good drafts, not being able to pay everyone. The Patriot way was always trade players before they declined, and contract demands become team crippling. They were lucky to have a QB who took less also. Some tough decisions will have to be made. The mistake I see Licht making is not trading some players before the contract impasse come up. Like trading Vea before the draft. They already knew than he wanted a new deal. Mistake letting it get to this now.
August 1st, 2026 at 6:52 am
Licht doesn’t have a crystal ball. If he has to fire Bowles this year, he has to have the ability to rebuild this team. New coach is gonna want his QB which might not be Baker. So if you resign Baker for 4 more years, new coach options might be limited as an OC type guy has his own QB in mind. If we get a new defensive coach Vita might not fit. I believe Vea could play in any D style but a new coach might.
August 1st, 2026 at 6:56 am
He is not paying ANYONE
August 1st, 2026 at 7:09 am
@Modhair, he paid a dude who gets bored, and gets burnt more than toast. So there’s that.
August 1st, 2026 at 7:10 am
The Buccaneers cap model has NEVER had to work with a quarterback paid at the top of starting quarterback salaries. That has allowed them to spread the salary cap over the rest of the starters while “ keeping the band together “
Something has to give and it will have to come from the rest of the roster.
This is EXACTLY what the top teams have to work with year after year.
August 1st, 2026 at 7:12 am
YOU had NO IDEA, Still seem unaware of WHAT MAYFIELDS CEILING IS OR WAS LIcht!!
Those of us from TX and Ok KNOW it’s unlimited…
You r full of empty so 2 speak air , and, your talking points r sadly lacking… may be time 4 you 2 exit with your coach who should of been gone already,….
In SPITE of you n glazers and bowles
GO BUCS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!go Baker!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
August 1st, 2026 at 7:21 am
Licht will not get an opportunity to fire Todd-if Bowles fails this year Licht is history.
August 1st, 2026 at 7:22 am
We are def in a tough spot. If Baker balls out and we somehow make it to the NFC championship game, or further, he will command Dak Prescott kind of money. On the flip side, if we are mediocre(Bowles specialty), and we move on from Baker somehow, we will lose out on one of the special QB’s in this upcoming draft. With that being said, hope we have a special year, and have the good problem of trying to pay who we can. Just color me a little pessimistic based on Bowles HC history. Go Bucs!
August 1st, 2026 at 7:32 am
@ NC
I agree.
The Bucs are in a “pretty tough spot” here with BM…
The cure?
WINNING!!!!
Success will cure all these woes for BM and our GM.
August 1st, 2026 at 7:38 am
I think Spytek was more the brains behind the operation with the salary cap than Licht is. Maybe the offense stays good, Licht gets tired of Bain dropping back to cover WR1’s in the slot, fires Bowles, keeps/promotes the OC to HC. From the outside, I don’t see how Licht gets to keep his job, fire Bowles, and hire another HC.
August 1st, 2026 at 7:40 am
Can’t blame JL for Tristan opening last season having knee surgery. Or Mauch’s meniscus in game 2. Or JMac’s broke neck. Or Godwin taking a minute to heal up from that dirty Ravens tackle (by the way, we get to play them this year).
It was injuries that sunk us last season. There. I said it.
Either Baker will love Tampa enough to play here next year or he won’t, but this year he’s making good money and he’s going to play his a$$ off. I’m concerned more about Vita at this point.
Why more concerned about Vita? Because our Defensive Line is going to be, by far, our biggest change this season. With Bain and Kancey you won’t believe the difference. And the added free agents? Wow, depth! Maybe David Walker shows us “that’s how you win a Super Bowl!?
Emphasis on special teams and some luck on the injury front? I’m with that Prickly Pete dude. This team will compete for a championship. We’re going to win alot of games. And I ain’t whistling Dixie.
August 1st, 2026 at 7:40 am
@Marine Buc, yessir
August 1st, 2026 at 7:42 am
If the greatest QB to ever play the game would settle for less money so the team could win i expect no less from Baker. Otherwise the team suffers and loses more good players. Stop being so damn greedy!
August 1st, 2026 at 7:47 am
Some of these conclusions are examples of why the jury system scares the crap out of me… including the one above that sums up by calling Baker greedy
SMH
August 1st, 2026 at 7:47 am
Just really hope Scott is ready to play on the outside. Can’t rely on Benjamin as dude seems to be living in the tub instead of on the field. The big IF will be if McCollum stays focused, he has all the traits, he just has some proving to do. I still have nightmares of Adams roasting him in that game last year. CB is by far our least depth position, with inside lb 2nd.
August 1st, 2026 at 7:47 am
It’s really not that hard. You can’t pay them both, Vita asked for a trade. If second round offers plus are coming in trade Vita. Yes, he’s good and a force in the field but if you believe Baker is a $55-60 million dollar QB he should be able to win without Vita.
If the Bucs win this year without Vita because of Baker now you have the money to pay Baker. If Baker can’t win without Vita he proves the point he needs great players not just average player around him to win.
August 1st, 2026 at 7:48 am
I think this is where Baker’s biggest grievance regarding the contract is justified. Of course all of us have different opinions about what kind of qb he is and how much he should be paid. It’s what makes this fun.
But when the people who are the ones to actually write the contract and sign the check say you are one thing and then offer you a contract that doesn’t reflect their words, that’s a problem.
August 1st, 2026 at 7:50 am
All this Baker long term deal talk makes this preseason more interesting. Second year man Baze, and newcomer Daniels will have a chance to prove they could be the future? Baker should’ve taken the deal. I wouldn’t give him 5 years.
August 1st, 2026 at 7:56 am
@ NC
“Scott playing on the outside”
I hope your right… CB is the weakest position on this roster at the moment.
Scott has the speed – we shall see if he has the rest of the goods.
Fingers crossed amigo.
August 1st, 2026 at 8:02 am
@ Marine, fingers crossed. Our pass rush should def be a lot better with Kancey healthy, and Bain seeming like the real deal. So that should help as well.
August 1st, 2026 at 8:04 am
Fortunately, Licht never paid Jameis.
August 1st, 2026 at 8:05 am
@ NC
Absolutely…
I really hope Diaby can continue his progress.
Sure would be nice to get a ten sack season from both Yaya and Kancey this season.
August 1st, 2026 at 8:08 am
Baker needs to stop talking to the press and let his agent handle this. Saying that your feel disrespected or calling the franchise shady doesn’t help your cause As far as overall culture is concerned, Bowles is the primary problem. Most of these players wouln’t say anything if this team won games and the bonuses started again. Bowles is not getting it done and everyone knows it. The frustration is still there and it has carried over to this season. They should have fired him.
August 1st, 2026 at 8:10 am
For me I can’t feel sorry for any of them, Billionaires arguing with Millionaires. But to say Mayfield spouted off is ridiculous. He was asked the question, he gave his answer and said that he was not going to speak about it any more.
Joe’s are acting like he came out against apple pie and America. He did not like the terms that were offered and the Bucs at this point are not comfortable offering him any more. Baker should leave this crummy organization like Evans did.
August 1st, 2026 at 8:17 am
The drama queens wakey early on Saturdays. Might that be because the short bus picks them up up early for pickelball.
August 1st, 2026 at 8:24 am
Spycceh was intelligent addressing cap money. It’s not rocket science. Someone in Jason Licht’s staff is capable of handling cap money. The Glazers were fortunate to have a Tom Brady who wasn’t a money grabbing quarterback. He was smart and the Goat who is worth more than than any retired NFL player.
Understanding money is not taught in school. Money impacts everything in life. How stupid is that. Therein lies the problem.
August 1st, 2026 at 8:27 am
Man, Todd bowls stinks. I don’t understand why he is still our coach. Does anyone, including Todd, believe he can win a superbowl?
August 1st, 2026 at 8:30 am
I know debating a player’s contract in the media is not in some opinions proper, but GM Licht needs clear the air and put sunshine on this s-show before it buries the season before it even starts. I understand why it has to be an extension but by adding money, what did the Bucs remove from the current contract? Just clear the air so fans pro and con are not left with assumptions!
August 1st, 2026 at 8:40 am
AI is going to replace genius capologists , which really is not a genius concept anymore.
AI can kick out a half dozen variables in a few minutes after being tasked with the problem.
There is a lot that doesn’t add up and is out of the character the Bucs have portrayed the franchise to be.
Wheels are about the come off this clown show.
August 1st, 2026 at 8:46 am
Licht let the cat out of the bag. He knows what a mess he’s made of the cap. There is no “Keeping the gang together” in ’27. We lost 3 or 4 main guys this year and it will be at least 4 or 5 more in ’27. Lots of fan favorites on the possible cap casualty list: Baker, Vea, Godwin, Mauch, Diaby, Mclaughlin, A’Shawn, Tucker. Many of the new 1 year deals will go bye-bye too. This year’s contract disruptions will look like a Sunday picnic compared to the blood bath coming in ’27.
August 1st, 2026 at 8:47 am
@ bakerfun
“Joe’s are acting like he came out against apple pie and America. He did not like the terms that were offered and the Bucs at this point are not comfortable offering him any more.”
When Baker signed his current deal – 3 years $100M – He was “thrilled and thankful” – for the “opportunity”.
Since then this team has regressed…
Now Baker is at the final year of the deal – THAT HE GLADLY SIGNED!!!!!! – he wants to start to pout and cry about being disrespected?
Here is my advice to both YOU and Baker…
SHUT UP!!!!!
STOP CRYING AND POUTING!!!!!
IF you are a winner and win games you will be rewarded for those effort.
Until then…
SHUT UP!
And play FOOTBALL!
August 1st, 2026 at 8:50 am
AND WIN!!!!
August 1st, 2026 at 8:57 am
Spytec came up through the scouting department and headed that until he also became assistant Gm. Greenberg is the capologist and current assistant GM.
August 1st, 2026 at 9:04 am
Now… if Baker keeps ragging on the Bucs about this then there is real reason to discuss him being a bad character.
Baker merely made a single statement laying down his position in public, before he did nobody knew what the details were between Baker and the Buccaneers.
Nothing wrong with that!
August 1st, 2026 at 9:04 am
@Hodad,
I wouldn’t have offered 5 years either. That’s for younger men. But 2 years is ridiculous for someone you say “was everything we hoped for when we signed him”
August 1st, 2026 at 9:10 am
The caterwauling on JBF is admittedly starting to get to me. Training camp just started; we haven’t played a single game yet. We haven’t even had a practice in pads yet, and all I seem to be reading is ‘Oh, woe is us’. ‘Fans’ are even panicking over 2027 and beyond now. Seriously?
The NFL runs 1 year at a time. If you do good, you’ll probably be around next year. If you do bad, all bets are off & there’ll probably be wholesale changes. And that’s exactly what happened to the Bucs. We sucked last season (well, second half at least) & many paid the price. For whatever reason, Todd Bowles wasn’t one of those, but then again, we don’t own the team. Chances are there’s a LOT going on behind the scenes that we don’t know about.
Baker’s playing a dangerous game in the approach that he’s taking to wanting a lot more money for his services. The Bucs finishing 8-9 last season MAY be saying to ownership & management ‘Why pay our QB $150 mil plus for the next 3 years so we can do this again & again & again?’ How much faith do they REALLY have in Baker? What goes on behind the scenes is oftentimes a LOT different than what’s offered up in the media. Our best bet as fans is to just let this thing play out.
August 1st, 2026 at 9:15 am
@DR,
Bringing calm, reasoned logic to the comments section? How dare you!
But seriously, I agree 100%. I think I’m about over the contract stuff. I don’t think there is anything left to say.
I just think we are all ready for something real (or at least preseason games for a fake version of real) games to begin.
August 1st, 2026 at 9:21 am
Baker played on a 4 million dollar one year prove it contract!
He proved it at a massive discount!
54-55 million per year for 3 years.
August 1st, 2026 at 9:22 am
@ SB
Do you understand what the term “contract” means?
As a man – have you ever signed a “contract” before?
I love you bro but come on man!
August 1st, 2026 at 9:26 am
You don’t get the right to complain about signing a “contract” just because you feel under compensated by the “contact” that (you as a man) signed.
Is everyone here taking “crazy pills”?
What is wrong with some of you folks?
Dam.
Make me use my legal mind and sh!t… I hate that.
August 1st, 2026 at 9:30 am
@ Drunk
That’s why DR and I have always been cool.
He is the “Hugh Honey” and I am the “Vick Vinegar”.
August 1st, 2026 at 9:30 am
JL is doing a good job. he’s made a couple mistakes but he’s right more than he’s wrong, if todd goes the new hc might not want Baker for years to come. starting to imagine what this team would look like with a different scrambling qb who can hit the group of receivers we have and not make mistakes, can’t believe we were going with trask until baker showed up, we got a good three years out of him at his prime maybe it’s time to move on after this year, he’s acting like a me first greedy baby
August 1st, 2026 at 9:35 am
Season hasn’t started but it’s off to a bad start.
Hopefully Baker is fine, playing angry, as he is supposedly good at.
We aren’t gonna get the best Vita if he eventually plays.
We already know Bowles can’t keep these guys focused and ready to play good ball week to week so contract distractions, losing Evans and David, etc don’t paint a pretty picture for 2026.
Once again, I hope I am wrong…
August 1st, 2026 at 9:40 am
If he really believes this, the Bucs should have offered Baker a four-year contract in the low $50M/year range. And if he +doesn’t+ believe it, he shouldn’t be saying it.
August 1st, 2026 at 9:42 am
By “this”, I mean that Baker is “a top-shelf quarterback whom the Bucs have confidence in to lead the team to the promised land.”
August 1st, 2026 at 9:47 am
Tom Brady took a pay cut to sign with the Bucs in order to continue winning and shove it up old “Billy Boys” arse…
TB12 won a SB and got darn close in year two.
BM arrives and is a mediocre to below mediocre (at times) QB and demands a pay raise because he has won ONE play-off game in THREE YEARS!!!!!!
Do you silly BOYZ see the difference?
One is a real leader and true champion…
The other is a one pump chump trying to steal more monies from the clueless billionaire brother club.
August 1st, 2026 at 10:02 am
That was a really good interview.
August 1st, 2026 at 10:02 am
Great articles, Joe.
Bucs are so lucky to have Licht and Bowles. Promised land here we come.
August 1st, 2026 at 10:04 am
Marine Buc, I hate to break it to you, but the grass isn’t always greener on the other side of the fence. In fact, it rarely is.
Baker is good enough…until something better comes along.
August 1st, 2026 at 10:11 am
Marine Buc:
Brady and his wife had $400M net worth when he came to the Bucs. It’s like LeBron accepting $8M(?) in Philly: nicely done, but no great sacrifice.
Mayfield thinks he’s a franchise QB, Licht says he agrees, and Mayfield wants a contract that reflects that belief. Maybe they’re both wrong (I’m honestly not sure), but it hardly makes Baker a “pump chump”, and negotiating isn’t “stealing”.
What’s with the over-the-top attitude and insults? Did you lose your shirt on the late-season 2025 games, or something?
August 1st, 2026 at 10:22 am
Lou’s defensive outlook here (hope for input from knowledgeable fans — you know who you are):
Background — the Bucs built a top- flight defense from 2019–2021. Under Bowles, though with Arians around to kick ass, take names, and fire under performers. So — Bowles CAN do it again, with proper talent. (Sorry not sorry, as this point gives some the sadz because truth hurts).
Currently — the Bucs are in transition. The DL is being retooled with a bunch of MUCH bigger bodies. Edge is substantially upgraded with new talent. Work on the ILB is just started and there are sure to be bumps, not to mention a woeful lack of depth (so I won’t mention it).
The strategy for the secondary is the most puzzling. It seems we need outside corners, and several of them. But the team keeps picking up more nickels (and dimes) and safeties. What gives?
It sure looks like the team is retooling the D to run a whole new system. Size on the front and larger players on the Edge means that you can get away with smaller d-backs. And lookie here: we picked up some corners who are MUCH smaller than Bowles has traditionally used. (Bowles seems to like large cbs and small safeties). Plus, the high number of “nickel” prospects (Roberts, Scott &c.) signals something is up.
This season — thought here is that Bowles aims to field a new and different scheme. He hinted as much last year, though he lacked the horses and made do through the injuries. The front end —the front six — will have much more size. They will be turned loose to meet at the quarterback and stop the run on their way, as the old Peter defenses were built to do. If an opponent doesn’t get much yardage on first down it will look up at perhaps a pair of hybrid safety-nickel-linebackers to cover the field.
Remember, Todd has done this before, and he’s tried exotic combinations like 5-man fronts or the 2-5-4 in the past. He hasn’t had horses to turn loose. But he’s got nothing to lose this year, so expect to see more aggression in the trenches and more athleticism from a smaller backend. (God, it feels weird to write that).
Prove me wrong.
August 1st, 2026 at 10:23 am
@ Bonzai
I agree.
My only question is – How do the Bucs replace a mediocre QB with a better QB given the current “supply and demand”?
My answer?
I don’t know…
Seattle just won a SB with Sam “freaking” Darnold at QB by beating the Drake Maye led New England Pats.
Maybe – Quality of QB play isn’t as paramount as it used to be?
In order for BM to succeed the Bucs will need a top 5 defense and run game – along with a top 5 special teams effort…
August 1st, 2026 at 10:25 am
If anyone wants to pay ME 40 million for this year and an additional 100 million for the two additional years beyond that, I won’t feel disrespected. On the contrary, I’ll take everyone here in the comments section out to dinner at Bern’s Steak House.
August 1st, 2026 at 10:28 am
@ justvisiting
“Did you lose your shirt on the late-season 2025 games, or something?”
No.
To quote one of my mentor’s Warren Buffet – “Gambling is a tax on stupidity”.
“why the insults”
What insults?
August 1st, 2026 at 10:30 am
I agree they’ve had some great drafts. i
If that is the case, why is Todd Bowles still here? Clearly the issue is coaching then.
Anyway, give Baker a four-year deal!
Trade VEA for an early second and fourth OR try to extend him for two years.
Just don’t let him play this year and walk because someone will offer him a contract the Buccaneers cannot match, and would not want to, since he’ll be worthless in two years anyway.
August 1st, 2026 at 10:34 am
This marine guy….jeeze, please remove that moniker and replace it with troll.
August 1st, 2026 at 10:39 am
BTW — to Defense Rules — You talked about how Mayfield HAD to lay it out for the team —that no one would want him and he’d lose all leverage if he had played it safe and so led the team to a 5-12 record.
The real option in my mind is this: What would his value have been if he hung his cleats up at 6-2 and gone on injured reserve?
Baker already went through a plummet in market value on the Browns. Same thing happened there, where he had put up two fine seasons with a one mediocre in between Then he played hurt — who else would have done well in Cleveland? — and so lost a —load of money as well as reputation. From the outside we’ve got to evaluate the worth of an impulsive quarterback who plays hurt. Great arm. Good, not great vision. Big balls, brains not so large. A prick, per management. What is that worth? and what is market value for such a player?
August 1st, 2026 at 10:40 am
Insults: “pump chump”, “stealing”
August 1st, 2026 at 10:40 am
After bouncing around like Mayfield, Sam Darnold played one year as a starter for Minnesota and went 14-3.
He went to Seattle the next year and matched that 14-3 record. And by the way, he won the Super Bowl making last year’s record 17-3.
When signing with Seattle he signed a 3-year contract for 100 million, mirroring Baker’s contract.
With Darnold’s regular season two year record of 28-6 and Mayfield’s being 18-16, why isn’t Darnold asking Seattle to tear up his contract?
Why doesn’t he feel “disrespected?”
Darnold just does his job and lets the chips fall where they may.
With Baker comes theatrics and a desire for the limelight.
If he does his job this year, he’ll get the money he craves so much. If he does not he’ll be justly rewarded as well.
Just wish he’d shut up about it and let his play do the talking.
August 1st, 2026 at 10:40 am
“The Bucs had the worst red zone defense in the NFL last year”
So according to marine, Baker was supposed to be tackling on D also….what IDIOTS you Baker haters are!!! Somebody must be paying you to do and say this kind of crap constantly many times a day every single day!
August 1st, 2026 at 10:47 am
@ Mad
“Baker was supposed to be tackling on D also”
Uh-oh…
I see what’s going on here.
Simple question – “yes or no” answer will do:
Did Baker sign a 3 year $100M contract?
August 1st, 2026 at 10:49 am
@ just
Those are not insults.
One is a very clever joke…
The other is simply hyperbole.
I would think a person of your stature and high IQ would know the difference.
August 1st, 2026 at 11:01 am
”Baker’s playing a dangerous game in the approach that he’s taking to wanting a lot more money for his services. The Bucs finishing 8-9 last season MAY be saying to ownership & management ‘Why pay our QB $150 mil plus for the next 3 years so we can do this again & again & again?’ How much faith do they REALLY have in Baker?“
Baker timing for all this is terrible, why?
Well, when you got the restructure last offseason, the front office dangled a $30M bonus and he took it, while coming off his 2nd best season in his 8 year career. The iron was hotter after the numbers he posted in ‘24 with a 10-7 finish. That was the time to play hardball. Not the off-season we lose Mike after an 8-9 finish and no playoffs for the first time since 2019.
That’s part of the problem, another problem is after taking the $30M bonus and already pocketing it, he’s come back with his bowl of gruel still full and giving the check writers the “please sir, can I have some more” and the indirect “No” is resounding.
Licht is in this interview talking about looking at the ‘23 agent class and talking about what Bakers’ ceiling COULD BE and 3 years in it looks like ‘24 Baker bumped his head on it. Over estimating his value, obviously ownership didn’t see him as a franchise option privately and now he’s opened he big mouth like a petulant child possibly alienating himself against his teammates and ownership.
“So according to marine, Baker was supposed to be tackling on D”
Mike Evans had a tackle in his final game as a Buc, ironically enough he tackled Christian Rozeboom who is now a Buc. Why on earth would a LB have the ball as a ball carrier and forcing a future HOF WR to record defensive statistics 🤔😂
August 1st, 2026 at 11:03 am
JA, so a quality HC, OC and a much superior defense than the Bucs didn’t help with the wins with the Vikings and Seahawks? Wonder how oh Sam would have done with the Bucs?
August 1st, 2026 at 11:09 am
Lou … ‘The real option in my mind is this: What would his value have been if he hung his cleats up at 6-2 and gone on injured reserve?’
Interesting question … but it’s irrelevant because that’s NOT what happened (why speculate over what never was nor ever will be?).
My philosophy for the past 50 years has been ‘Life happens; deal with it’. Very similar to ‘You are where you are’. Both sound incredibly simple, but all it takes is acknowledging where you are TODAY. Far too many live in the past, or spend their time hoping the future will make everything better instead of working their butt off TODAY to make that happen.
Baker has 1 year to go on his contract (as does Vea), but he opted to focus on the future. Sounds to me like Licht made him an offer, but not to Baker’s liking. So he pouted in the media and has now said ‘I’ll deal with it’ (play out this year).
My conclusion from all this posturing? Great, now do it. Let’s get on with playing football. If Baker has a great season, he’ll get paid (by the Bucs or someone else). If he has a bad season, it’ll probably cost him some big $$$. Hmmm, sounds a lot like gambling doesn’t it?
August 1st, 2026 at 11:11 am
@ warrin
“Over estimating his value, obviously ownership didn’t see him as a franchise option privately and now he’s opened he big mouth like a petulant child possibly alienating himself against his teammates and ownership.”
Dats a banger mate…
Agree -100%
August 1st, 2026 at 11:15 am
Look at the infighting among the fans. What a rotten start to the season. Anyone comparing Brady taking a discount with $300 mill already in the bank and Mayfield has a massive misunderstanding of basic economics and MATH. Wow. And to the other poster babbling about asking to rip up a contract…where did Mayfield request that? Another BS comment from the BS buc fan peanut gallery. The Glazers should have cleaned house this last off-season. A GM with a 93-104 record. 61-86 without the GOAT. And there’s no other GOAT coming to rescue us. Everybody needs to go. What an absolute mess?
August 1st, 2026 at 11:21 am
Licht pre-savior Bruce Arians had a worse record than DirtStar Dominik. Post Arians the team has been taller than most midgets in the NFC South.
The humble brag of “having great drafts” is a bit much. Words fell in the Bucs lap ( 4th tackle picked…the other 3 are average at best ). Vea came from the pick traded that turned out to be Josh Allen.
Of course he’ll only do a sit-down with his drinking buddy Stevie K. More softballs than main stream media to their preferred party that is.
In fairness…the offer made to Mayfield was a fair one. Mayfield forgets he was a whisker away from being out of the league not all that long ago. Complaining to the media hasn’t helped.
August 1st, 2026 at 11:24 am
@Marine
We’re watching a QB have an identity crisis. “I’m a franchise QB” I’ve been told “I’m a franchise QB”
But the offer you got didn’t signify that, so that means this franchise doesn’t have the same descriptor as Mayfield does as for what a franchise QB is.
All this talk about Darnold, but I’ll as y’all to put the money in your pockets for perspective
Why tf would you pay a guy coming off a 8-9 finished $17M more than a guy who not only won an SB, but did so with an injured oblique, led the league in picks during the regular season but commiting NONE in the 4 game playoff run.
Also, do any of you realize Baker in his 120 start he has NEVER had a stretch of >3 games without committing a turnover? Lmao Yall compare players then compare everything about the players except for the players themselves directly.
Thanks for the good reads though, because some of this is comedy
August 1st, 2026 at 11:24 am
Used to have great drafts . Bucs are in the position they are in now because whoever was instrumental in helping licht have great drafts probably isnt with the team anymore, maybe its more than 1 person. Glazers unwilling to shell out money because there hasnt been great drafts to give the owners hope that this team could actually win a super bowl. They arent a one player (Tom Brady) away from the super bowl anymore .
August 1st, 2026 at 11:25 am
What discount did Brady take? His first contract in Tampa was considerably larger than his final Patriots one.
August 1st, 2026 at 11:28 am
@Marine Buc says
“In order for BM to succeed the Bucs will need a top 5 defense and run game – along with a top 5 special teams effort…”
I say true, very true. Of course that goes for almost every other NFL team too!!! Just sayin’
August 1st, 2026 at 11:29 am
@ 80sBucFan
“The Glazers should have cleaned house this last off-season. A GM with a 93-104 record. 61-86 without the GOAT. And there’s no other GOAT coming to rescue us. Everybody needs to go. What an absolute mess?”
Bing! Bong! Bam!
I feel like Danny DeVito in the movie “Good Fellas” – LOL!
JK – I know it’s not Danny DeVito – goofballs!
You are 100% correct.
We have a below average HC – being lead by a mediocre GM – who has assembled the most mediocre roster that has ever been built – fostering the “ego” of the most fragile but “Moxy-filled” QB in NFL history – who has accomplished absolutely ZERO?
To quote my baby
August 1st, 2026 at 11:30 am
WAAAAAAAAAAAAA!
August 1st, 2026 at 11:35 am
@ info
Congrats.
You are the most realistic person in this entire comment section.
August 1st, 2026 at 11:43 am
Just call her Mari e from now on guys….
August 1st, 2026 at 11:46 am
I like DRs comments today. “You are where you are”. Expanding on the importance of “Today”. Yesterday is gone and tomorrow isn’t here yet.
But today and tomorrow are results of choices we made yesterday…
May not look like Baker makes good choices- all the time, anyway. But let’s let it play out. The choices he’s made in his life have given him the “chance” to win a championship this year.
No idea why he’d choose to bash the top brass. Maybe because he has less guaranteed money left in his contract than any starting quarterback in the NFL who isn’t on a rookie contract?
But no matter. He intends to honor that contract and play in a manner that will give him choices the rest of us could only dream about. And DR. Choices are like gambling in alot of ways. Yes?
August 1st, 2026 at 11:48 am
Sorry Marine , but anyone has a right to complain about anything
It is called the 1st Amendment and there is a reason it was first
August 1st, 2026 at 11:49 am
Folks railing about contracts “ have you ever signed a contract?”
Bucs have been in contract talks with Baker!
Baker’s point of view he was been the unquestioned starter and LEADER of the team.
Baker’s point…. someone can look it up but.. what is his annual average salary been since he has been with the Bucs?
Get it now???? and OH ! The Bucs have been in contract talks with Baker
August 1st, 2026 at 11:53 am
Bonzai … ‘Baker is good enough…until something better comes along.’
Fascinating observation Bonzai, although that rarely seems to be how the NFL operates. Pats were a good example. Brady kept them competitive until he left after the 2019 season, then they went thru 5 seasons (1 winning/4 losing) with a combined 33-51 record). During those 5 seasons they used TEN different QBs, and finally settled on Drake Maye (drafted #3 in 2024 after going 3-14).
In actuality Baker is ‘good enough’, but how far will that take us? Is he ‘good enough’ to win a Super Bowl? Heck, is he even ‘good enough’ to win another NFC South title?
I think that what the Glazers & Licht & Bowles are looking for is to build a TEAM that can win with just an average QB. That’s pretty much what Seattle did last year. They ended up with the #1 defense and the #3 offense. But they did it with a journeyman QB, Sam Darnold, supported by an outstanding TEAM. Seahawks ran the ball 507 times against only 481 pass attempts, and Darnold threw for 25 TDs (1 less than Baker) but for 14 INTs (3 more than Baker). And yet Sam Darnold, making $33 mil/yr, led an excellent Seahawks TEAM to the Promised Land via a 14-3 record. More than anyone can say for Patrick Mahomes, making $63 mil/yr, whose Chiefs finished 6-11 last year.
August 1st, 2026 at 12:00 pm
Marine Buc: I’m not sure about my stature and high IQ, but I appreciate the kind words!
August 1st, 2026 at 12:04 pm
Personally, I agree that expecting (much less demanding) to renegotiate the final year of a signed contract is a low-class move, except in truly exceptional circumstances. And by that, I mean something like Scottie Pippen’s seven-year, low-ball extension with the Bulls. Baker’s situation doesn’t qualify.
August 1st, 2026 at 12:06 pm
Marine Buc, stirring the pot and doesn’t even realize he’s got a spoon in his hand. I would say “ignorance is bliss” but it’d probably come out wrong.
August 1st, 2026 at 12:11 pm
@justvisiting – Mayfield is not trying to renegotiate! It’s an extension. People, come on, READ more before posting dumb crap. you mean VEA? Confused?
August 1st, 2026 at 12:20 pm
So what’s our salary cap situation. Can we “afford” to pay these guys and choosing not to or our we broke and over the cap? Go Bucs!
August 1st, 2026 at 12:23 pm
Licht is bit optimistic on how great his drafts have been the last 5 years. Has he had a pro bowl pick in that period? He’s eager to extend his picks as it seems to validate in managements mind they picked well but middle of the road starters and no impact players that he overpays for hasn’t proven to be winning formula. We’re barely winning the worst division in the league, it’s a bit of a joke. Evans bailed for less money, Vea wants out, Baker sounded off, the majority of fans despise Bowles….Licht sounds like he’s completely oblivious how his moves are perceived.
August 1st, 2026 at 12:24 pm
“having great drafts”
Can Gas Licht get through one interview without patting himself on the back?
His “great drafts” have garnered us half a decade of .500 ball and zero Pro-Bowl players.
August 1st, 2026 at 12:31 pm
And DR. Did you just say that Sam Darnold threw for less touchdowns than Mayfield did last year? And that he threw more interceptions than Baker last year? With a way, way, way stronger defense? And with JSN being the top receiver in the league and their running back the Super Bowl MVP it’s pretty clear that Seattle simply had the better team last year.
Except when they played Mayfield and his Buccaneers. They didn’t have the better team that day, did they?
August 1st, 2026 at 12:35 pm
I think he talked about Vea, but the difference between the way they feel about Vea “you have instances where you had to tell them how it was going to be” – is how they view their starting and self-described “franchise” QB (he is, but they apparently don’t know what that means).
Sounds to me like their franchise WB just told the owners – through the GM – how it was about to be.
For one day. Cuz Bakernisnt talking anymore, and he doesn’t care that you are trying to value him as a 31 year old QB, only being rated for his last 9 games of a disastrous team performance.
Now, on to Cincinnati, or Los Angels, New York, Arizona, or Pittsburgh…you make the call.
And quite frankly – I’m here for it. You got no options and you got no chance at a draft pick to negotiate this way. It’s ok, these owners pulled up short, have locked in on second-guessing and ignoring market dynamics, and lack of planning – and acting like retaining their HC had no implications on how the QB would be forced to deal with a bad OC, a bad line, no running game, both starting WE, and toilet paper defense.
The owners better step up, get real, or pass. It’s on them. Right now a few fans realize wheee they are, next season ALL of the fans will know.
The problem isn’t your starting QB.
August 1st, 2026 at 12:36 pm
If Bowles was fired last year, the new coach could decide if he needs Vea and Mayfield at the price they want.
Keeping Bowles put the whole team in limbo , not wanting to commit big money to anyone because the new hire may have other ideas.
At this point, they are best to trade Vea and deal with Mayfield after the season (and with a new coach in place)
August 1st, 2026 at 12:38 pm
Kenton … ‘Except when they (Seattle) played Mayfield and his Buccaneers. They didn’t have the better team that day, did they?’
Got a funny feeling that if you said that to Mike MacDonald he’d say ‘It’s not how you start, it’s how you finish’.
Baker starting 6-2 and finishing 2-7 kinda verifies that. Darnold also started 6-2, but finished 8-1. And oh ya, they’re both working on the same 3-year $100 mil contract.
August 1st, 2026 at 12:53 pm
Maybe just maybe if the whole team took the field with mayfield he would have went 3-6 to make the playoffs?? Jus sayn.. UGH
August 1st, 2026 at 12:55 pm
DR. 2-7 verifies something all right. That Mayfield’s offense had Zero turnovers and 3 touchdown passes against New England and our defense gave up 4 TDS of lengths not seen in the league in 25 years to lose game #9. That Baker and our offense hung 32 against Buffalo in week #10 while Josh Allen accumulated 6 total touchdowns for only the second time in his career to lose again. And how about Mayfield sticking it into Atlanta, deep, as we took the 28-14 4th quarter lead yet the defense laid down on their tummies and stuck their butts so far up in the air that we were forced to pass the ball to have to win? And although he threw a pick, Atlanta still had 70 yards to go? Would have been 11 wins there. Except our defense coming down the stretch decided they were world beaters holding the competition to 20 points in the drivin rain in 2 games. All of that with injuries bordering on shocking. You remember what you want to DR- I’ll remember what happened.
August 1st, 2026 at 1:01 pm
80sBucsFan: As I recall, one of the JBF posts said that Baker objected to being offered a two year extension w/o a matching increase to his 2026 pay. It’s possible that was misreported, or that I’m remembering it incorrectly. I have zero problem with Baker negotiating for an extension, and personally think three or four years at around $50M-$55M/year would be good for all parties.
August 1st, 2026 at 1:12 pm
Defense Rules: The whole “It’s not how you start…” thing makes no sense to me, whether it’s applied to qames or seasons. Every TD is worth 6, every FG is worth 3, and every game is worth 1. You don’t get a bonus win for scoring late, nor a playoff berth for finishing strong.
August 1st, 2026 at 1:12 pm
I’m wondering if Jason said anything about Kyle Trask? He’d be more in line with the pay scale the Glazaers any many posters on this site have in mind.
August 1st, 2026 at 2:00 pm
Marine Buc Says:
August 1st, 2026 at 9:26 am
You don’t get the right to complain about signing a “contract” just because you feel under compensated by the “contact” that (you as a man) signed.
——————
Hey jarhead, this is America he can say whatever the h3ll he wants
He is looking for his 27 and beyond contract, he’s not complaining about what he signed to play for this year
Oo-rah meathead…..
August 1st, 2026 at 2:28 pm
Trask? Really? Come on.
August 1st, 2026 at 2:35 pm
It is sad to see how far the Bucs have deteriorated under Bowles.
August 1st, 2026 at 2:35 pm
JustVisiting, have to say DR, who’s generally right, is right about finishing strong. It’s the mark of a great team, something we weren’t last year. In 2023 and 2024 we tore it up in the final stretches. 2025 was the outlier for sure.
August 1st, 2026 at 2:49 pm
Kenton, I don’t see it, personally. To me, a great team is one that performs throughout the season, and a great player (typically) performs throughout the game. If your winds up 8-9, I don’t really care when you lost the nine. Or if your QB turns the ball over three times in the game, I don’t care much which half he sucked. I get that lots of fans see this differently, though…all good.
August 1st, 2026 at 3:10 pm
“Great” WHAT!? Did HE just say “DRAFTS!?” The two words “Great” & “DRAFTS,” back-to-back… In the same sentence, TOGETHER!? Absurd. Just LAUGHABLE. How So, Then!? When, HE hasn’t drafted a single “Pro-Bowler” ONE, for now 5+YEARS and counting. HE is a LIAR. So, ‘someone’ needs to set the record STRAIGHT with HIM. Cause, that’s a BUNCHA BULL CRAP. He’s been coddled by everyone (especially with this local media), and has been ALLOWED to get away with saying such GARBAGE. He’s never been held accountable for ANYTHING, by ANYONE. So, THIS is exactly what YOU GET.
He GAVE Chris Godwin $66-MILLION ($44-MIL fully-guaranteed), right AFTER drafting his REPLACEMENT (at pick #19)… And, KNOWING that there was a DAMN GOOD chance of last season being the TOTAL WASH that it was. You people do realize, that “Chris Godwin” MUST perform at the level of a “TOP-5 PAID WR” over the next 2-SEASONS, RIGHT!? In order for us to receive the type of RETURN on our investment, that’s needed. Which now equates to HIM being a $33-MILLION PER YEAR WIDE-RECEIVER. Hell, a $44-MILLION ONE (Chase $), if they decide to ‘walk-away’ from him after this season… While, he is STILLL eating at OUR CAP. Just PITIFUL. And, it was such a no-freaking-BRAINER, too. Better be hoping that HE has one HELLUVA season this year, JUST so that we CAN ‘move him’ either at the trade-deadline, OR during next offseason.
There have been soooooo MANY just ‘horrific’ moves (and non moves) by Lickt over the past several years now, that it has just DESTROYED US. And, it is the reason for WHY we are where WE ARE RIGHT NOW. Just way too many to even begin listing. But, 94-103 Career Record as Bucs GM. Responsible for 60% (6 whole YEARS worth) of the “Lost Decade.” And, is now going into HIS 14TH-SEASON. I mean, “WHO” gets to do THAT!? While, being treated as if “HE” is some type of GOD, or something!? Seriously!? It’s PATHETIC. A fricking JOKE. And, the local media is 💯 COMPLICIT. 💯 And, I’ve been telling all of you THIS, TOO!!!!!!!!
August 1st, 2026 at 3:13 pm
As a forever Buc fan, this is the first season I have a nagging feeling in the pit of my stomach of an impending season disaster.
Something ain’t right with this group, and I can’t put my finger on it.
Maybe the owners know the SB window has closed, and they will no longer mortgage the future in pursuit of one by “keeping the band together.”
August 1st, 2026 at 3:16 pm
Plus, if a coaching change is on the horizon, if the wheels come off, who wants to coach a team in cap hell by extending older players past their prime?
I do not like being pessimistic, but something is tugging in that direction.
August 1st, 2026 at 3:20 pm
Hearty Dickerson
Exactly right.
Willful ignorance is an all too common thing these days.
August 1st, 2026 at 3:45 pm
@ Kenton Smith Says: “2023 and 2024 we tore it up in the final stretches.”
Yeah, and including last season’s schedule, were most likely THE ‘WEAKEST’ final stretch of ALL-TIME. Could NOT have been any ‘weaker’ to end a season with, over a 3-YEAR STRETCH. And, it STILL took THEM all the way through, until the FINAL WEEK-18 of the regular season. It’s nothing but “Smoke & Mirrors.” That’s ALL it was, folks… SMOKE & MIRRORS. A complete WASTE. It’s very refreshing to see that the Owners have finally recognized this, too!!!! This whole “Baker, Bowles, & Lickt” era, has THIS SEASON to show that they can shine. I’m just along for the ride. I’m afraid it’s going to get awfully, UggggLY. I can’t envision THIS team having ANY amount of success whatsoever. Can’t see-it. Other than, just ‘winning’ another TERRIBLE “1-Bid” Division. And, then that would be a very WORST case scenario for us. Prob means both, a Lickt & Bowles return… Since, they’re already under contract. And, depending on how he ‘looks and plays’ – it’ll be the ‘tag’ for Baker, and we’ll be running back this total Clown Show, once AGAIN. It’s the never-ending story, living in the friggin’ Twilight Zone.
August 1st, 2026 at 3:47 pm
Cobraboy Says:
August 1st, 2026 at 3:13 pm
As a forever Buc fan, this is the first season I have a nagging feeling in the pit of my stomach of an impending season disaster
—————-
You’ve been a Bucs fan “forever” but THIS is the 1st season you’ve had a bad feeling in the preseason ? Wow – just wow 🤣
August 1st, 2026 at 3:56 pm
Simple T. Cobraboy sentiment makes me think maybe this is gonna be the year.
August 1st, 2026 at 3:57 pm
@ BigMo Says: “New coach is gonna want his QB which might not be Baker. So if you resign Baker for 4 more years..”
New Coach is also going to want HIS OWN GM. And, if he’s a TOP tier level HC, then HE WILL DEMAND IT. But, here we go AGAIN… “4-More YEARS!?” What is it that you people are sooooo incapable of fricking COMPREHENDING!? I mean, it’s just MIND-BOGGLING. They get sh!t in their heads I guess, and they JUST CAN’T GET-IT OUT!? It’s UNBELIEVABLE. There is no such THING as “4-YEARS.” Not for a 32-YEAR OLD. Now, WHY is that just soooo HARD (or impossible) to freaking UNDERSTAND!? Hell, they LITERALLY just refused to give HIM even “3-YEARS,” but then YOU are bringing up “4” AGAIN!? I mean, it’s LAUGHABLE at this point. Makes me want to pull my freaking HAIR OUT. It’s ridiculous. It’s OVER. Get-it outta YOUR MIND, Dude. It’s not even a possibility. GEEZE.
August 1st, 2026 at 4:01 pm
Okiejim—
What did the Vikings do before Darnold got there? Nothing!
What did they do after he left? Nothing
And what did Seattle do before Darnold got there? Nothing!
I can’t help but think you’d be echoing these statements if Sam Darnold’s name was Baker Mayfield!
You guys and your Baker man crushes are something else!
August 1st, 2026 at 4:11 pm
Let’s imagine the Bucs signed Baker to a 4 year $225 million contract with $150 million guaranteed (probably close to what he’s asking) this year.
His (and his agent’s) next move would be to sign him up for multiple tv commercials and appearances on Dancing With The Stars…..
The Bucs management is correct to keep him focused on football this year.
August 1st, 2026 at 4:16 pm
Just STOP. IF Baker was “worth-it” (what he wants and what you IDIOTS continue agreeing with him on), then HE would’ve GOTTEN-IT during the two sides FIRST go-around. He wasn’t some ‘rookie’ THEN. And, HE only got a so-called ‘mid-level’ deal… The 3yr/$100-MIL. Again, was exactly what “I” said it should be. And, HE would’ve had PLENTY of other teams, trying to ‘bid’ on HIM. But, HE DIDN’T. It was only the BUCS. So, other than just the ONE ‘outlier-season’ under COEN… He. Has. NOT. PROVEN IT. YET. Period. End of Story. It’s pretty damn SIMPLE. Then, factoring in HIS AGE, and literally EVERYTHING ELSE… It’s EASY.
August 1st, 2026 at 4:34 pm
JoeBob… my Trask comment above was obvious sarc to most people, yet some people are still triggered by very mention of his name, like you.
August 1st, 2026 at 4:53 pm
@Simple T: I have been around a long time. Some seasons, going into them, I knew the roster was not strong, and I did not expect much…and was usually correct. I never thought of impending disaster.
This season is different. Evans leaving, David retiring, Baker contract, Vea demands, Bowles track record of mediocrity as his highest HC achievement- all those things give me pause.
This has been a most unusual off-season.
And I don’t see the usual pre-season locker room juice.
The closest I came to this feeling in the past was when the 2002 SB team got dismantled…and the team went into a decade+ funk.
So, yeah, something just does not “feel” right.
August 1st, 2026 at 5:13 pm
JA, First of all, one must remember who the Vikings drafted in 2024 and why they signed Sam ( a talented quarterback whose overall strengths were not used by past OCs). JJ McCarthy was to be #1 but season ending injury propelled Sam to the starting position (a Tom Brady type of move). With a strong offensive line, a solid running game and an elite receiver (Jefferson), HC/OC used Sam’s talents to the fullest. The best part for was an even more elite defense the forced turnovers, stopped the run and rated a+ in most categories. Sam also had equal success with the Seahawks for the same reason. So instead of parsing your words, using a subjective reasoning to answer my question “do you think Sam would have been successful playing for the Bucs in 2025? (There is much more about the Vikings record of 2025 but this is not a Vikings website)
August 1st, 2026 at 5:13 pm
Speaking of Kyle Trask, I ‘ll bet he was one of the highest paid QBs ever if a QBs salary was based on the total number of in season plays he was on the field for. That is his salary divided by his actual on field play count. He’s laughing all the way to the bank! He must have made about 2 or 3 M$ per play.