Licht: Clear message on Baker Mayfield contract talks (Bucs)

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are focused on re-signing star quarterback Baker Mayfield, who is entering the final year of his three-year, $100 million contract and likely poised for a significant raise. General manager Jason Licht has made it clear that reaching a new deal with Mayfield is the top offseason priority, highlighting the strong relationship between the team and the quarterback and signaling that Mayfield remains central to Tampa Bay’s plans.

After a pair of Pro Bowl seasons in 2023 and 2024, Mayfield’s 2025 performance was solid but not as impactful, contributing to concerns about the offense as the team struggled down the stretch. Despite losing key contributors like Mike Evans and Rachaad White, the Buccaneers still boast a talented supporting cast and a new offensive coaching staff, which provides optimism for a rebound in 2026. While the team could wait to evaluate next season before finalizing terms, Licht and the front office are actively pursuing a contract extension to keep Mayfield with the Buccaneers.

Key Takeaways
– Mayfield is at the center of Tampa Bay’s offseason plans, with a potential contract extension prioritized by GM Jason Licht.
– Mayfield’s recent performance shows evaluate potential; the Buccaneers remain confident in his fit within a revamped offensive system.
– Despite offseason departures, the team believes in the talent surrounding Mayfield and aims for a strong 2026 season.