The Tampa Bay Buccaneers took a chance on former first overall pick Baker Mayfield last year and it paid off handsomely for both sides. Mayfield, who was with his fourth team in just three seasons, had a career year in Tampa, throwing for 4,044 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions while rushing for 163 yards and another score with his legs.
Mayfield had only signed a one-year contract so he could end up back on the market this spring. It's been said by both sides that they'd like to remain together but crazy things happen in free agency so it's not a guarantee until the ink on the contract dries.
Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report says that whoever signs Mayfield could end up regretting spending "big money" on the quarterback.
"However, consistency, both individually and situationally, has always plagued him. Former Buccaneers offensive coordinator-turned-Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales deserves significant credit for his offensive structure and allowing his last quarterback to build the comfort level Mayfield mentioned.Brent Sobleski
But the fifth-year starter will be paired with yet another new play-caller, whether he stays or leaves the Bucs. He has had a new offensive coordinator every year of his career.
The level of consistency found within winning organizations and how it helps in the development of the quarterback position can't be overstated. Mayfield's career is defined by upheaval. There's no guarantee this past year won't be a one-hit wonder when placed in another offense."
Could the Bucs regret keeping Baker Mayfield around?
The reason Sobleski feels that Mayfield could be a regretful signing is that the Bucs are losing Dave Canales this offseason to the Panthers, who hired him as their next head coach. Mayfield has had a hard time keeping offensive coordinators dating back to his early seasons in Cleveland and he'll have yet another one to work with in 2024 no matter where he goes.
Could a non-Canales Bucs offense be troubling for Mayfield? He should hopefully still have the same weapons he had a season ago (he has said that he wants to get the band back together, meaning that Mike Evans would hopefully return to Tampa as well) and the NFC South is a weak division.
There's obviously a chance for regression from Mayfield but Bucs fans got to see him put together the best year of his career and the hope is that he only gets better from here.