Baker Mayfield

NFL player. Position: QB. Team: TB.

Quick Facts

• Position: QB
• Team: TB (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
• Bye week (2026): 10
• FantasyPros PPR rank (pulled 2026-05-21): 124

2026 Outlook

Mayfield is healthy heading into 2026 after a season derailed by early shoulder and oblique injuries (2025: 26 TDs/11 INTs, 6.85 yards per attempt in first ten games; 9 TDs/8 INTs, 6.5 yards per attempt in final eight games post-injury recovery). His inconsistency in the second half impacted the entire Bucs passing game, including WR1 Emeka Egbuka's regression. The 49ers added Mike Evans in free agency, opening slot targets. If Mayfield stays healthy, he should stabilize the offense and give Egbuka more opportunity to find rhythm (per CBS Sports Raises Questions About Buccaneers WR). CBS Sports classifies him as a "Volatile veteran" (Tier 4) entering 2026, noting that his 2024 campaign was impressive but 2025 underperformed due to Buccaneers injuries. The 2026 season is critical as Mayfield enters the final year before potential free agency (per Ranking every NFL QB by tier, plus the top receiving duos and landing spots for the top remaining free agents - CBS Sports).

Zac Robinson's offensive overhaul (June 19): The hiring of Zac Robinson as offensive coordinator represents a significant schematic reset for Mayfield. Tampa Bay ranked 21st in yards per game and 22nd in points per game under prior OC Josh Grizzard—a failure to capitalize on elite receiving talent (Egbuka, Chris Godwin, Cale Otton). Mayfield has solidified offensive weapons with the re-signing of TE Cale Otton, who established career highs in 2025 with 59 receptions and 600 yards, becoming his trusted safety blanket and red-zone target (per 2026 Bucs Free Agency Updates: Five Players Sign - Tampa Bay Buccaneers). Robinson's scheme, which emphasized 12-personnel (multiple TE sets) at the second-highest rate in the NFL with the Falcons, brings a fresh approach to unlock the Buccaneers' offense. Early minicamp tape reveals immediate impact: Mayfield threw TD passes to both Cade Otton and rookie TE Bauer Sharp in team drills, a stark reversal from 2025's zero TE TDs until Week 15. Robinson's philosophy should unlock additional efficiency in the red zone and potentially stabilize Mayfield's performance after a down 2025. (per Zac Robinson is already bringing one major change to Buccaneers' offense - The Pewter Plank)

Matthew Berry projects Mayfield at QB19 in the 2026 cheat sheet, calling him a solid value pick. Mayfield will work with his eighth offensive coordinator entering Year 9, but his history with new OC Zac Robinson (who coached him in Atlanta and has worked with him previously) brings continuity and familiarity. Robinson has specifically praised Egbuka's route tree and receiving ability, noting "nothing he can't do," which positions the young WR for growth in the offense. Despite inaccuracy and injuries plaguing 2025, Mayfield has averaged 17.9 fantasy points per game since 2023—a QB10 pace, giving Berry confidence in his floor even at the cheaper ADP tier (per Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2026 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet: Baker Mayfield, Emeka Egbuka And More).

Mayfield faces a critical prove-it year in 2026 as he guns for a contract extension. He remains the undisputed QB1 for Tampa Bay, but his 2025 performance created uncertainty around his long-term future with the franchise. Early April (April 1), GM Jason Licht publicly signaled strong confidence that an extension will get done "at some point," describing Mayfield as the heartbeat and franchise cornerstone, with no holdout concerns expected (per Buccaneers look to extend Baker Mayfield - Sports Talk Florida and post-nfl-draft-projected-buccaneers-depth-chart). ESPN's Mike Clay projects Mayfield for an "average season" in 2026 as the Bucs pursue their 9-win projection, with solid supporting production from Bucky Irving and Kenneth Gainwell in the backfield offsetting Mayfield's modest individual performance. (per Buccaneers Hit With Realistic Projection in 2026 ESPN Guide)

Mayfield has set a camp deadline for contract extension talks, saying the sides are "not anywhere close" on terms. He told reporters he won't negotiate contracts once training camp begins and expects any deal to be finalized before that point (per Bucs QB Baker Mayfield says contract talks 'not close,' sets deadline for deal). While Mike Evans left in free agency for San Francisco, Mayfield remains confident in the receiving corps anchored by Chris Godwin, who should take charge of the room, plus healthy second-year receivers Emeka Egbuka and Jalen McMillan. With key playmakers returning healthy and the draft addition of Ted Hurst as a big-bodied target, the offense has multiple weapons to absorb Evans' departure.

Contract negotiations update (June 14): With Patrick Mahomes' new deal setting a $63.093M/year market, Mayfield's extension talks face a new baseline. His current contract averages $33.3M per year. The Buccaneers could franchise tag him in 2027 (at ~$48M), but there's a sense they'd rather offer him more than any free agent market would provide rather than lose him. Mayfield's 2026 season is critical—if he proves healthy and productive, he'll have significant leverage in negotiations. (per After the Patrick Mahomes deal, which quarterbacks are next to get paid?)

Performance metrics (June 14): Pro Football Focus reported Mayfield's 2025 passing grade at 64.8, reflecting struggles with accuracy alongside his mid-season injuries. The Buccaneers ranked 23rd in rushing EPA per play, indicating offensive pressure fell entirely on Mayfield's shoulders once injuries sidelined him. With a new offensive coordinator and a healthier roster around him heading into 2026, Mayfield has the supporting cast to return to QB-tier production if he can avoid injury (per 'Disappointing' Bucs Head Coach Todd Bowles Tops NFL Hot Seat List).

Contract update (June 24): As of late June, Mayfield said contract talks remain "not anywhere close" to a deal with the Buccaneers, with talks stalled since his June 5 statement to that effect. He's set a firm deadline: if a deal isn't reached before training camp, negotiations will resume only after the 2026 season concludes. Currently earning $33M per year (16th-highest-paid QB), the two sides appear entrenched while both express long-term commitment. General manager Jason Licht and coach Todd Bowles want Mayfield in Tampa Bay, but terms are a sticking point (per 2026 NFL contract extension updates for all 32 teams). ESPN analyst Aaron Schatz flagged Mayfield's contract positioning as Tampa Bay's most pressing offseason need, noting that the QB market has shifted dramatically in recent years, creating distinct tiers between elite franchise QBs, established starters, and veteran stopgaps. The central question: where does Mayfield fit? Both sides have expressed interest, but determining his value within that market landscape remains the core obstacle. A deal that resolves before training camp would remove significant uncertainty heading into the 2026 season (per ESPN analyst says Bucs need to extend QB Baker Mayfield).

As of July 4, heading into training camp, Mayfield has affirmed his deadline: any deal must be reached before camps start or he'll play out the season. At #16-highest paid at $33.3M AAV, he's outperformed his rank over the past two seasons and is looking for "middle ground," though reports suggest the sides remain far apart. Mayfield stated he will not negotiate contracts once training camp begins, expecting any deal to be finalized before that point. With Patrick Mahomes' 2026 extension setting the market at $64M AAV, Mayfield's position on the salary spectrum—significantly below elite starter compensation—fuels his leverage argument. The Buccaneers could franchise tag him in 2027 (~$48M), but there's internal appetite to offer more than a free agent market would provide. The fundamental uncertainty: will Mayfield's 2026 health and performance prove enough to command elite QB pay, or will continued injury concerns limit Tampa Bay's offer? (per Lamar Jackson, Baker Mayfield contract questions lead NFL training camp's biggest storylines)

As of July 8, per an NFL agents' analysis, Mayfield's camp likely views Daniel Jones' Indianapolis deal ($44M/year) as a starting point for serious discussions, despite Jones' Achilles injury. Mayfield probably expects to join the $50M+ quarterback club; there are currently 13 players making $50M or more. The middle ground using peer QB contracts ranges from $47.5M to $51.75M per year. If the Buccaneers balk at a deal in this range, Mayfield could become an unrestricted free agent in 2027 after playing out 2026. A franchise tag in 2027 would cost Tampa Bay at least $46.77M based on current calculations. Patience may work in Mayfield's favor: with Lamar Jackson, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, Caleb Williams, and Bo Nix all eligible for extensions in 2027, one of them could reset the market by eclipsing Mahomes' $63M+/year deal, lifting all QB compensation upward (per Agent's Take: Can Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers find middle ground on a contract extension?).

Netflix "Quarterback" injury revelation (July 14): Netflix's third season of "Quarterback" revealed the full extent of Mayfield's 2025 injury burden. He played through an MCL/PCL sprain from Week 2 onward, a "bad biceps contusion," a left shoulder injury (Week 12), plus foot/toe, oblique, and knee injuries throughout the season. The Netflix series showed Mayfield saying "Pain is miserable, but toughness is something that shows me how bad you want something." Despite the cumulative injury toll, he played all 16 games (listed questionable only twice, playing both times), finishing 8-9 with 26 TDs/11 INTs, 63.2% completion. He notably wasn't on the injury report for the knee injury until Week 5 despite the MCL/PCL sprain starting in Week 2. The Bucs lost 7 of their final 9 games post-bye, suggesting Mayfield's ability to perform decreased as injuries mounted (per Baker Mayfield reveals list of injuries he suffered in 2025 on 'Quarterback' - USA Today).

Question of durability with injuries (July 15): Sports Illustrated's analysis raises concerns about Mayfield's pattern of playing through significant injuries—comparing his 2025 campaign to his 2021 season with the Cleveland Browns, when he played with a partially torn labrum and the damage contributed to his eventual departure. The key concern: while Mayfield's toughness is admirable, it may harm his own team's performance if he plays too injured. His second-half decline in 2025 (2-7 record Weeks 10-18, 9 TDs/8 INTs) mirrors his accuracy drop from 25.7% deep-ball accuracy early season to 20.8% post-injury. Tampa Bay's backup QB situation is weak (Teddy Bridgewater's relief appearance vs. Rams showed 53.3% completion), making it difficult for coach Todd Bowles to sit Mayfield even when injured (per Is Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield Playing Through Injuries a Big Problem? - Sports Illustrated)

Contract context (July 3): NFL Network analyst Tom Pelissero identified Mayfield's extension as "the most important contract negotiation this offseason," citing his positioning at the bottom of veteran franchise QB pay. With no reported movement as of early July, the Buccaneers may choose to let Mayfield play out his contract year and address terms after the season—a strategy that could allow him to hit free agency despite his stated preference for an extension before camp (per NFL Insider Identifies Buccaneers' Biggest Question Before Camp]).

Latest update (July 8): According to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, the two sides "are not close, yet" with "a lot of work that needs to be done." Critically, the Buccaneers are in "no rush" to reach a deal, even though training camp begins in just three weeks. This signals Tampa Bay may be content letting Mayfield play out 2026 on his current deal, reducing urgency and giving them a full season to evaluate his performance before committing long-term (per NFL insider just gave a Baker Mayfield contract update Bucs fans won't want to hear).

July 12 context (updated): Local beat voices remain cautious about extending Mayfield before proving his durability and ability to stay healthy through the stretch. JoeBucsFan reflects the split opinion: one view favors extension now to lock in the QB; the other argues rushing to extend a QB over 30 with ongoing injury history (shoulder, oblique in 2025) could backfire if he struggles again. This cautious approach stems from Mayfield's pattern of late-season injuries impacting finishing ability in 2023 and 2025. Mayfield's 2026 season is framed as "make-or-break" for both his contract future and the Buccaneers' organizational direction under GM Licht and HC Bowles (per Future Of The Bucs In Baker Mayfield's Hands?).

2027 free agency outlook (July 31): With no extension reached by training camp, Mayfield is positioned for free agency after 2026. If the Bucs franchise tag him in 2027, the cost would be ~$47.7M. Mayfield's camp has pointed to recent mega-deals (Jordan Love $55M AAV, Trevor Lawrence $55M AAV, Brock Purdy $53M AAV) as market benchmarks, though those players were drafted and developed by their current teams—a structural advantage rarely afforded to veterans in free agency. Kirk Cousins represents a rare exception, landing massive open-market deals twice (Vikings 2018, Falcons 2024). Mayfield's 2026 performance is critical: the better his season, the more leverage he'll have in negotiations and the more likely Tampa Bay will need to tag him. Bucs' backup options (Jake Browning, Jalon Daniels, Connor Bazelak) are thin, adding pressure on the franchise to retain Mayfield if he proves healthy and productive (per What happens with the Bucs and Baker Mayfield in 2027?).

Trade value ranking reality check (July 18): ESPN's Bill Barnwell ranked 19 quarterbacks as worth a first-round pick in a trade, excluding Mayfield despite his strong recent performance metrics (playoff appearances in 2 of last 3 years, statistical comparison favorable to other veteran starters). The exclusion reflects durability and age concerns (31 years old) that suppress trade market perception even as Mayfield's on-field production remains solid. While Mayfield compares well to Jared Goff, Dak Prescott, and Matthew Stafford statistically, his positioning outside the first-round tier signals market skepticism about his remaining window (per Buccaneers' Baker Mayfield Gets Surprising NFL Trade Value Ranking).

Contract deadline passed (July 28): As training camp opened, Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers failed to reach an extension. Mayfield arrived at training camp on July 28 without a deal, confirming his self-imposed deadline had passed. He is now playing out his final contract year at $33.33M/year average (16th among QBs) before potentially becoming an unrestricted free agent. ESPN reported "no real progress" had been made toward a new deal as of training camp, with Mayfield seeking compensation more in line with top-tier QB peers. He remains unfazed by potential franchise tagging in 2027 but expressed fondness for the Buccaneers' opportunity to help resurrect his career. The team faces other contract challenges—Vita Vea also requested a trade over failed extension talks, signaling broader organizational friction around compensation. Meanwhile, the Buccaneers' lack of progress with both Mayfield and Vea on contracts creates potential instability heading into training camp. (per Baker Mayfield to play out Bucs deal, become free agent, NFL Training Camp Round-Up: Aaron Rodgers says there's 'zero debate' this is his final..., and NFL training camp news, live updates: Buccaneers DT Vita Vea requests trade)

ADP value disconnect (August 4): Despite finishing QB12 in 2025 while playing through significant injuries (MCL/PCL sprain from Week 2 onward, shoulder and oblique issues), Mayfield's draft positioning reflects injury concerns rather than current production. RotoBaller's August analysis identifies Mayfield as severely undervalued when all factors align: with Zac Robinson's new scheme, a fully healthy receiving corps (Egbuka, McMillan, Godwin, Otton all healthy), and no major injury burden heading into 2026, Mayfield's ceiling resembles his 2024 MVP-candidate season (4,500 yards, 41 TDs). When healthy, Mayfield averaged 21.1 fantasy points per game in Weeks 1-6 of 2025 (only Mahomes and Allen scored higher), cementing him as a top-12 option once the injury cloud clears (per 8 Fantasy Football Undervalued Draft Picks: Matt's Must-Have Players (2026)]).

July 30 frustration: Mayfield expressed frustration during training camp, saying he feels "disrespected" by the Buccaneers' stalled contract negotiations. He doubled down on his refusal to negotiate further, stating his price tag will only increase if talks continue into the 2026 season. "I'm very, very thankful for the chance…but I also know what I brought to this franchise, leadership-wise and play-wise. It's been the best years of my career, and I think it's only going to trend upward. So it's disappointing in that regard to feel disrespected a little bit." (per Bucs QB Baker Mayfield says he feels 'disrespected' amid contract impasse)

Organizational strain (July 31): The relationship between Mayfield and the Buccaneers has become strained following his public comments about feeling "disrespected." ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the team is unhappy with how Mayfield spoke about the organization, creating an adversarial dynamic ("Baker versus the team"). The core disagreement: Tampa Bay offered $50M per season but only for 2 years, while Mayfield sought a longer-term deal. For 2026, both sides have agreed to move forward with focus on the season, with negotiations off the table until after the year concludes. (per Buccaneers reportedly aren't happy with QB Baker Mayfield)

Trade speculation (August 3): With frustration mounting on both sides, NFL teams have begun inquiring about Mayfield as a potential trade target. Most realistic landing spots include the Atlanta Falcons (familiar with HC Kevin Stefanski, strong weapons in Drake London, Bijan Robinson, Kyle Pitts), Minnesota Vikings (loaded roster in need of proven QB experience with Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison), and longer-shot options like Cleveland Browns, New York Jets, San Francisco 49ers, Carolina Panthers, Los Angeles Rams, Washington Commanders, and Miami Dolphins. The trade market is speculative at this stage—Tampa has not signaled willingness to move Mayfield mid-season—but the organizational strain and his performance profile (9-win ceiling) could make him expendable if the Buccaneers' 2026 season disappoints. (per Potential NFL destinations for Baker Mayfield amid Bucs frustration)

Role / Depth Chart

Starting QB for Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Seven-year starter with the franchise.

Injury Status

Healthy heading into 2026. Despite claiming a perfect attendance record since joining Buccaneers in 2023, Mayfield played through an extensive injury list in 2025. Netflix's "Quarterback" series (premiered July 14) and Fox Sports 990 interview (July 13) detail the injury toll: Mayfield revealed he played through a sprained knee, biceps contusion, oblique strain, foot injury, and issues with both shoulders throughout 2025. The cumulative damage included a biceps contusion affecting throwing velocity, a left shoulder AC joint sprain Week 12, and right knee sprain early in the season. By the Patriots game in Week 9 (after the lion's game aggravation), Mayfield reported pain at a 7 out of 10, yet overcame it to complete 28 of 43 passes for 273 yards and three TDs. However, his performance cratered post-injury: just 10 TDs/9 INTs over the final eight games.

Netflix "Quarterback" Season 3 specifics (July 13-14): The Netflix docuseries (released July 14) details Mayfield's injury journey throughout 2025 with clinical precision. He dealt with an MCL/PCL sprain starting in the Houston game (Week 2), along with a bone bruise that was aggravated during the Lions game. Later, a tendon injury occurred in his bicep from the Jets game—the bruising was significant enough that he wore an arm sleeve to cover it up. On a scale of 1-10, Mayfield assessed his knee pain around the Patriots contest (after the bye week) at approximately a 7. Additional ailments included an AC Joint injury sustained against the Rams. The full injury log per USA Today: foot/toe (Week 3), right biceps (Week 4), knee/right biceps (Week 5), knee/oblique (Week 8 & 10), illness (Week 12), left shoulder (Week 13-15), right shoulder/knee (Week 18). Mayfield's takeaway quote captured his mentality: "Pain is miserable, but toughness shows how bad you want something." Despite these challenges, Mayfield started all 17 games and compiled his statistics (26 TDs/11 INTs, 6.85 yards per attempt in first 10 games; 9 TDs/8 INTs, 6.5 yards per attempt in final 8 games post-injury). Lavonte David, the veteran Bucs linebacker, noted on The Arena podcast that Mayfield "dealt with injuries most quarterbacks wouldn't play through." Mayfield acknowledged in interviews that while injuries affected his play, he adapted by changing his approach on the field, stating "It is not really an excuse, you just have to get used to it, figure it out and go from there." The cumulative toll contributed to his second-half statistical decline and raised durability concerns for a QB over 30. (per Bucs' Mayfield Details Injuries From 2025, Baker Mayfield Details 2025 Injuries - NFL Rumors, Bucs QB Baker Mayfield Admits He Hid Multiple Injuries in Netflix Series, Baker Mayfield reveals injuries, showcases family life in Season 3 of Quarterback on Netflix - Yahoo Sports)

2027 tag floor (July 16): Mayfield intends to halt extension talks if no deal is reached when Buccaneers veterans report July 28. CBS Sports calculates a 2027 franchise tag would cost at least $46.77M (120% of his ~$40M cap number), with Mayfield seeking to join the $50M QB club — raising the stakes for Tampa to find middle ground before camp or face an expensive one-year tag in 2027. (per Agent's Take: An early look at 2027 NFL franchise tag candidates, including Puka Nacua)

Recent News

• 2026-07-24 — Aaron Donald, Patrick Mayfield and other top NFL storylines - Lawrence Journal-World (Aaron Donald, Patrick Mahomes and other top NFL storylines - Lawrence Journal-World) — In final contract year; Buccaneers want extension at ~$55M/year but sides remain apart
• 2026-08-14 — NFL preseason Week 1: Tua Tagovailoa to start for Falcons; Geno Smith, Baker Mayfield... (NFL preseason Week 1: Tua Tagovailoa to start for Falcons; Geno Smith, Baker Mayfield...)
• 2026-07-07 — Gap Remains Between Baker Mayfield’s Asking Price, Buccaneers’ Latest Extension Offer... (Gap Remains Between Baker Mayfield’s Asking Price, Buccaneers’ Latest Extension Offer...)
• 2026-08-19 — Baker Mayfield mends fences with his family (Baker Mayfield mends fences with his family)
• 2026-05-21 — How will Jalen Hurts, Baker Mayfield and 11 other QBs fit with new coordinators,... (How will Jalen Hurts, Baker Mayfield and 11 other QBs fit with new coordinators,...)
• 2026-08-05 — Ted Hurst III Connection with Baker Mayfield, WR Injury Updates and Pressure Mentality... (Ted Hurst III Connection with Baker Mayfield, WR Injury Updates and Pressure Mentality...)
• 2026-06-11 — ESPN: Don’t Look For A Baker Mayfield Holdout (ESPN: Don’t Look For A Baker Mayfield Holdout)
• 2026-06-06 — Holdout From Bucs QB Baker Mayfield Unlikely - NFL Rumors (Holdout From Bucs QB Baker Mayfield Unlikely - NFL Rumors)
• 2026-08-06 — NFL news, live updates: Franchise tag an 'option' for Baker Mayfield in 2027 but Bucs... (NFL news, live updates: Franchise tag an 'option' for Baker Mayfield in 2027 but Bucs...)
• 2026-05-04 — A Baker Mayfield extension just got floated, and it'd be a steal for the Buccaneers (A Baker Mayfield extension just got floated, and it'd be a steal for the Buccaneers)
• 2026-07-20 — Hall of Fame QB Backs Texans' C.J. Stroud Over Baker Mayfield (Hall of Fame QB Backs Texans' C.J. Stroud Over Baker Mayfield)

Open Questions

(scoped to this player — pulled from Fantasy Football Open Questions)