Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield has been one of the biggest bargains in recent memory. However, signs point toward him making the money he left on the table in 2024 in his next payday — and then some.
There wasn't much, if any, uncertainty when Mayfield re-signed with the Buccaneers roughly two years ago. The two sides are "expected to" engage in extension talks again this offseason, according to Jeff Howe of The Athletic ($). Be that as it may, recent intel suggests the negotiations may not go as smoothly this time around.
Mayfield "has a chance" to be the first signal-caller to earn $50-plus million annually in free agency come March 2027, per Howe. There figures to be an aggressive bidding war for the two-time Pro Bowler's services if he becomes available. Several suitors could emerge, including (but not limited to) the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings, depending on their respective situations, if/when the moment comes.
"Considering the likely competition for his services, it's not farfetched to believe [Mayfield] could corral the biggest contract in NFL history," Howe wrote. "And if quarterback Matthew Stafford retires after the 2026 season, the Los Angeles Rams and Mayfield might feel compelled to reunite. The Minnesota Vikings would be another obvious fit, but there would be a handful of teams ready to pursue the 2017 Heisman Trophy winner."
NFL insider suggests Baker Mayfield could leave Buccaneers for Rams or Vikings
The Bucs can put an end to the speculation by meeting Mayfield's presumably lofty demands in due course. Preventing him from hitting the open market keeps rival clubs like Minnesota and Los Angeles from even getting their foot in the door. Nevertheless, doing so would require an unprecedented organizational roster-building strategy.
Tampa Bay has "never spent a premium price" on a passer, as Howe highlights. That may be more about a "lack of opportunities" than by design, though. Regardless, with the Vikings and Rams possibly lurking, the Bucs could be pressured into breaking the bank for Mayfield.
Of course, a lot can change in approximately 12 months. Reigning MVP Matthew Stafford effectively takes the Rams out of the mix if he's not ready to hang up the cleats just yet. 2025 first-round pick J.J. McCarthy or veteran signal-caller Kyler Murray can stake their claim in Minnesota.
Nevertheless, either prospective Mayfield landing spot would be a worst-case scenario for the Buccaneers. Winding up with an NFC foe is one thing. Joining the Rams or Vikings, where he can instantly thrive, is the ultimate double whammy.