4 ripple effects of the Bucs naming Baker Mayfield starting quarterback

4. A long-term job is within reach for Baker Mayfield, but the ball is in his court

Just because Mayfield was named the starter now doesn't mean he is guaranteed the job going forward. Make no mistake, this Bucs team doesn't want to mess around at the quarterback position. If things go poorly for Mayfield, then Trask will get his chance while Mayfield heads to the bench.

And, if both end up playing poorly, then the Bucs will likely be in position to replace them both in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Mayfield, specifically, has his chance to prove that his NFL career is far from over. He's surrounded by arguably the most talented receiving core he's had since entering the league, assuming both Evans and Chris Godwin stay healthy.

Should Mayfield enjoy success this year and prove he is worthy of a future contract, then he will have turned around his career. It's pretty simple. He has to play well, and he'll find himself sticking around this league a lot longer. And, the important thing to remember is, it's very possible. Look at a guy like Geno Smith, a career backup, who finally broke through and proved his worth.

This is no where near as bad a situation as Smith faced during his career, so Mayfield should not only be grateful but highly motivated to perform well. The rest of his career very well could depend on this season in front of him.