Baker Mayfield has become a point of contention in NFL discussions, largely due to his trajectory as a quarterback. His late bloom has left fans and analysts perplexed about his true value, impacting everything from fantasy football drafts to salary negotiations with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
A Track Record Worth Noting
Despite uncertainty regarding his ranking among quarterbacks, Mayfield has led the Buccaneers to playoff appearances in consecutive seasons and even secured his second playoff victory against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023. This achievement puts him in a unique context—he boasts a more favorable playoff record than some more highly-paid counterparts, such as Dak Prescott and Justin Herbert, yet finds himself 19th in terms of salary among NFL quarterbacks.
Salary Discrepancies
One of the more perplexing aspects of Mayfield’s situation is his average salary of $33 million, which is surprisingly low considering his performance. Comparisons to players like Geno Smith and Sam Darnold, who earn similar salaries, do not adequately reflect his passing yard production in recent seasons. The disparity raises questions about the valuation of players in today’s NFL, especially when comparing postseason achievements against lucrative contracts.
The Contract Conversation
Dak Prescott’s high-profile contract has set a benchmark in the league, often overshadowing quarterbacks like Mayfield who have performed well but haven’t seen corresponding financial recognition. This makes for an intriguing narrative as conversations around salary often hinge on playoff success, which Prescott has not matched.
Future Paydays on the Horizon?
Looking ahead, Mayfield stands a good chance of negotiating a lucrative contract if he continues to perform, especially if he helps the Buccaneers clinch a third consecutive NFC South title. Given the division’s current landscape—widely regarded as the weakest in football—this is a distinct possibility.
Impressive Metrics
Since joining Tampa Bay, Mayfield has put up impressive statistics, averaging 568 pass attempts, 4,272 passing yards, 34.5 touchdowns, and a completion percentage of 67.9%. If the Buccaneers wish to maintain their dominance in the division, they might choose to extend Mayfield’s contract before the 2025 season.
What to Expect in Future Negotiations
Fans can anticipate that any potential contract extension for Mayfield will command at least $40 million annually, with $50 million not being out of the question. The Buccaneers’ financial decision-making will hinge on their vision for the future, particularly if they aim to continue collecting divisional titles.
Adjusting to Change
The 2025 season represents a critical juncture for Mayfield, especially as he adapts to the absence of former offensive coordinator Liam Coen. If he can maintain or improve his performance despite this change, it could significantly bolster his bargaining position in future negotiations.
Conclusion: Making the Most of the Present
With the clock ticking on the remaining opportunities with established players like Mike Evans, Mayfield must capitalize on each game to showcase his abilities. The road ahead is uncertain, but the potential for a bright future remains as long as he continues to perform at a high level. As the NFL evolves, so too will the narratives around players like Mayfield, making for an intriguing storyline to follow in the coming years.
Image Source: Ron Adar / Shutterstock
