The Bucs and Pro Bowl backup quarterback Baker Mayfield have agreed to terms on a new contract, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. It’s a three-year contract worth $100 million, of which $50 million is guaranteed.
![Breaking news: Bucks re-sign Baker Mayfield 2 Bucks QB Baker Mayfield](https://www.pewterreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Mayfield-Baker-Bucs-Jaguars-toss-300x200.jpg)
Bucks QB Baker Mayfield – Photo courtesy of USA Today
The Bucs originally signed Baker Mayfield in 2023 following the retirement of former quarterback Tom Brady. The Bucks, who had to deal with a near-max salary cap, were able to acquire Mayfield on a relatively cheap contract with just $4 million guaranteed. The results were better than most people expected.
baker mayfield set a career high His completions (364), passing yards (4,045) and touchdowns (28) led the Bucs to their third consecutive district title and a Wild Card Round victory.
Baker Mayfield brings continuity to offense
By hiring Mayfield, the Bucs are looking to bring continuity to an offense that is already in some turmoil with the departure of offensive coordinator Dave Canales. Mayfield coached wide receiver Mike Evans, who had one of the best seasons of his career. Fellow wide receiver Chris Godwin gained over 1,000 yards, and tight end Cade Otton improved in his second season.
![Breaking News: Bucks re-sign Baker Mayfield 3 Bucks QB Baker Mayfield](https://www.pewterreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Mayfield-Baker-Bucs-Packers-pocket-300x200.jpg)
![Breaking News: Bucks re-sign Baker Mayfield 3 Bucks QB Baker Mayfield](https://www.pewterreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Mayfield-Baker-Bucs-Packers-pocket-300x200.jpg)
Bucks QB Baker Mayfield – Photo courtesy of USA Today
Mayfield had a career-best season, but there’s room for optimism that he could be even better in 2024. Despite historically having quality deep balls, Mayfield struggled to connect with receivers deeper than 20 yards.
He completed 22-of-74 (29.7%) for 744 yards, nine touchdowns and four interceptions on deep passes. If he can improve in that area, it could legitimately open up a new ceiling for him and the offense.
In his career, Mayfield has a record of 1,750 wins, 2,825 losses, 20,333 yards, and 130 to 74 touchdowns, and is 2-2 in the playoffs.
The Bucks’ main goal this offseason was to re-sign many of their top players who were scheduled to become free agents this week.
![Breaking News: Bucks re-sign Baker Mayfield 4 Bucs GM Jason Licht](https://www.pewterreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Licht-Jason-Bucs-podium-Indy-2024-laugh-300x201.jpg)
![Breaking News: Bucks re-sign Baker Mayfield 4 Bucs GM Jason Licht](https://www.pewterreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Licht-Jason-Bucs-podium-Indy-2024-laugh-300x201.jpg)
Bucks GM Jason Licht – Photo by Adam Slivon/PR
They have accomplished many of these goals, starting with wide receiver Mike Evans. They placed the franchise tag on safety Antwon Winfield Jr. in hopes of reaching a contract extension by the summer.
Second, by signing Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay can ensure they get back the most important piece to their offense in order to win the division again and make a long playoff run.
The work is far from done, but the Bucks at least have the foundation in place to be a competitive team again. The legal tampering period for free agency begins on Monday, March 11th. I know Mayfield is off the market, but there will be a lot of discussion about quarterback.