The Tampa Bay Buccaneers haven’t had much long-term success at the quarterback position throughout franchise history.
They’ve still never drafted a true franchise quarterback, with both of their Super Bowl titles coming behind veteran quarterback additions rather than homegrown stars.
Baker Mayfield is the latest quarterback to arrive in Tampa Bay and thrive, and his next contract could give him a chance to make franchise history.
Baker Mayfield can become longest-tenured QB in Buccaneers history
Baker Mayfield is entering his fourth season as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers starting quarterback in 2026. He’s set to hit free agency next offseason, but all signs point toward a long-term extension that keeps him in Tampa Bay.
Both ownership and general manager Jason Licht have publicly expressed interest in extending Mayfield, making it clear the organization from the top down is fully committed to him as its franchise quarterback.
Whenever that extension gets done, Mayfield will move closer to making franchise history. Currently, the longest-tenured starting quarterbacks in Buccaneers history are Vinny Testaverde (1987–1992) and Trent Dilfer (1994–1999), who each spent six seasons with the team. A three-year extension after the 2026 season would allow Mayfield to surpass both and become the longest-tenured quarterback in franchise history.
It may not be the highest bar for a franchise with Tampa Bay’s shaky quarterback history, but it still says a lot about the trust Mayfield has earned within the organization. Before arriving in Tampa Bay, he appeared headed toward journeyman status after stints with the Cleveland Browns, Carolina Panthers, and Los Angeles Rams.
Now, Baker Mayfield has finally found a home and has a legitimate opportunity to finish his career with the Buccaneers and cement himself as the first long-term franchise quarterback in the history of the franchise.
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