Baker Mayfield has made his intentions clear: he wants to remain with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers beyond the 2026 season.
In a candid conversation with reporters, the quarterback revealed that while he loves the city, the fans, and the organization, contract extension talks have not advanced as quickly as he and the team had hoped.
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“First and foremost, regardless, we’ve built roots here in Tampa,” Mayfield said. “We love the community, we love being here. They’ve embraced us. We enjoy being here and, obviously, are going to raise kids here.” However, when it comes to the business side, the situation is more complicated. “The contract stuff, it’s happening, it’s starting — talks and whatnot. But, not anywhere close to what we were thinking,” he added.
Mayfield emphasized that once training camp begins, contract discussions will stop completely. “As soon as training camp starts, we’re not doing [anymore] contract stuff. It’s all ball,” he stated firmly.
A strong partnership that needs resolution
Since joining the Buccaneers in 2023, Baker Mayfield has posted a solid 27-24 record as the starter. He has thrown for 12,237 yards, 95 touchdowns, and 37 interceptions. His first two seasons in Tampa were particularly successful, leading the team to the playoffs both years, including a divisional round appearance in 2023.
The 2025 season was more challenging due to injuries, but Mayfield remains one of the most competitive and respected leaders in the locker room. His desire to stay in Tampa and build something lasting with the organization is evident. The Buccaneers have until the start of training camp to reach an agreement. If no deal is reached, Mayfield will play out the final year of his current contract and enter free agency in 2027.
Buccaneers must decide on Mayfield’s future
For Tampa Bay, keeping Baker Mayfield long-term would provide stability at the quarterback position and allow the team to continue building around a proven winner. However, the financial details and length of the deal will be key factors as both sides negotiate.
Mayfield has made it clear that winning remains his top priority. “I’m still going to do everything I can to help this team win a Super Bowl,” he said. “To me, that’s the priority. Everything else will take care of itself.”
As the 2026 season approaches, the Buccaneers and their fans will be watching closely to see if one of the most successful quarterback-team partnerships in recent years can be extended.