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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have secured their quarterback, Baker Mayfield, with a three-year extension worth $165 million, according to ESPN. The deal, announced on Tuesday (September 8), ties Mayfield's average annual salary of $55 million as the third-highest among quarterbacks in the NFL. This extension ensures Mayfield remains with the Buccaneers through the 2029 season.
Mayfield, who is 31, played all 17 games last season despite battling injuries. He threw for nearly 3,700 yards, with 26 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. The Buccaneers missed the playoffs, but Mayfield's performance was strong enough to secure his future with the team. He had previously been a Pro Bowler in 2023 and 2024, his first two seasons with Tampa Bay.
The extension comes after Mayfield and the Buccaneers resumed contract talks, which had stalled at the start of training camp. With the regular season approaching, both sides were motivated to finalize the deal. The Buccaneers see Mayfield as their franchise quarterback, despite losing key receiver Mike Evans to free agency.
Mayfield's performance in the upcoming season will be crucial, especially with the team adjusting to a new offensive system under coordinator Zac Robinson. The Buccaneers are hopeful that Mayfield can lead them back to the playoffs and are confident in his ability to adapt and succeed.