With training camp looming, contract talks could hit a stalemate as the veteran quarterback sets a firm deadline to secure his future in Tampa.
The final year of Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield's deal is right around the corner and the signal caller has announced his deadline for getting a contract extension done.
During a recent Organized Team Activities (OTAs) media availability, Mayfield made it clear that while contract extension talks are ongoing, the negotiations aren't yet close to what the quarterback is looking for and that "all the talking stops" once training camp begins.
Mayfield's extension became a clear next step for the Buccaneers after the offseason departure of wide receiver Mike Evans. Should the Bucs and Mayfield reach their agreement to extend, Evans may regret his decision to leave after this season. For more on that potential angle, Bucs Roundtable Jason Klingensmith took a look.
The Bucs passer led the team to another competitive year in a putrid NFC South division whose winner, the Carolina Panthers, advanced to the playoffs with a record of just 8-9. It's not exactly the most shining portion of his resume as he pioneers an injury-riddled roster to second-place, 8-9 finish. Perhaps that is why the Buccaneers are apparently coming in below the desires of Mayfield and his camp.
His two previous seasons ended in playoff appearances and division championships, including a stellar 2024 season in which he threw for 4,500 yards and 41 passing touchdowns while completing 71.4% of his passing attempts across 17 starts. Mayfield has never missed a start for Tampa since signing in 2023.
This could be a situation that develops quickly in favor of a deal getting done with training camp set to begin in the NFL in late July. But if not, it could make Mayfield one of the most valuable pending free agents after the season.
The quarterback was clear that remaining with Tampa Bay long-term is his preference. A strong 2026 may help to solidify that if a deal isn't reached beforehand.
