Buccaneers, Baker Mayfield Begin Extension Talks

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and impending free-agent quarterback Baker Mayfield have started "preliminary talks about a new contract" this offseason. General manager Jason Licht is expected to meet with Mayfield's representation during the NFL scouting combine next week. After the 28-year-old Mayfield had a career season in his first year in Tampa in 2023, it's expected that there is mutual interest in a reunion for 2024 and beyond. Mayfield had a career-high 4,044 passing yards, 28 touchdowns and 10 interceptions and even led the Bucs to a wild-card playoff victory over the Eagles. The former No. 1 overall pick won't have offensive coordinator Dave Canales working with him in 2024, though, and there's a possibility he'll also lose top wideout Mike Evans in free agency. Mayfield's fantasy appeal as a solid QB2 would take a big hit if he doesn't have Evans to rely on.