Report: “Extensive Talks” Between Bucs And Baker Mayfield; Sides Not Close
July 18th, 2026
Ian Rapoport is one of the NFL super-insider reporters. And it certainly helps him to work for NFL Network, which is partly owned by the league itself.
Joe knows Rapoport’s calls and texts for information get answered, and Joe suspects Rapoport is not offering romantic getaways and poolside time for information.
So Joe has to share what Rapoport said yesterday on The Insiders show on NFL Network. Speaking about the Baker Mayfield contract extension, Rapoport did not sound optimistic.
“They have had extensive talks. It does not feel to me like they are close. And this deadline is coming,” Rapoport said.
The “deadline?” Baker Mayfield said weeks ago he’s not negotiating once training camp begins. That’s in 11 short days.
Mayfield’s three-year contract expires after this season.
Per Rapoport, 12 NFL quarterbacks have contracts averaging $50 million or more per season, and Mayfield wants to join that club.
July 18th, 2026 at 2:08 am
Im at the point where I think he should just play and lets see how the season goes if hes asking for too much. Jason is being smart about this, because think about it….this could be Todds last year if he performs bad. So another new coach will want his own coordinators and assistants….or maybe our OC gets promoted to that role if he does very well but the D doesnt. In that case, Baker gets some continuity and we have a HC/OC dual hatting situation. OR the whole thing is blown up, new HC and everything and that guy will probably want his own QB. This way we’re not stuck in bad cap area…..
OR we’re gambling, holding 19 and the house hits 20 if Todd and Baker takes us deep into the playoffs….in that case, Bake will hit the 60+ mill club.
July 18th, 2026 at 5:39 am
Joe I’m not sure after what Edmonds said about what I knew Brady did not taking more money. That’s something though to have put in Bakers mind and would be nice for him to come back down a little, maybe 🤔