Baker Mayfield, who has experienced a revival in his career by guiding the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to the NFL playoffs, asserts that his main priority is to overcome the Philadelphia Eagles rather than pondering over his future.
The top pick in the 2018 draft has been having his most successful season yet, leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to their third consecutive division title and a playoff game against the struggling Philadelphia Eagles. Since joining the team on a one-year contract, Mayfield has performed impressively, potentially earning himself a long-term deal with the Buccaneers or another team impressed by his rebound from previous unsuccessful stints with the Cleveland Browns, Carolina Panthers, and Los Angeles Rams.
Being in a stable environment and being the best version of myself has meant the world to me, as well as being able to do what I’ve been able to do thanks to the organization, staff, and locker room. It’s a special place that I truly appreciate,” Mayfield expressed.
“I hope my teammates understand that. Every day, I try to show who I am by bringing energy and passion into my work,” the 28-year-old quarterback added. “It has been an amazing experience for me, but we’re not finished yet.”
Tom Brady guided Tampa Bay to a Super Bowl victory and three playoff appearances from 2020 to 2022 before retiring following a playoff loss to the Dallas Cowboys last year.
Mayfield had a rough season last year, going 2-8 as a starter for both the Panthers and Rams. Not many people expected much from him when he signed with the Bucs and won Brady’s old job in training camp. However, Coach Todd Bowles saw potential in Mayfield, not only for the offense being implemented by new coordinator Dave Canales but also for the rejuvenated locker room that has become younger since Brady left. The team still has star players like Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Vita Vea, Lavonte David, Shaquil Barrett, Devin White, and Antoine Winfield Jr.
Mayfield has thrived due to the contributions of younger players such as second-year running back Rachaad White and the growth of tight end Cade Otton and rookie defensive starters Calijah Kancey and Yaya Diaby.
One of the reasons the quarterback was able to gain the respect of his teammates was by not attempting to emulate Brady.
“I believe he’s relatable because he’s unique, and our team is unique as well,” Bowles stated. “We needed to take a different approach, and it has worked out in our favor. The attitude he brought in could positively impact a team of any age. It’s simply who he is.”
The significance of that particular aspect is not very large, but his leadership skills and our efforts to transform the team have been exceptional. He also guides the veteran players and actively participates with both the offense and defense,” the coach added. “During the offseason and summer training camp, he truly fostered a sense of unity and chemistry among the players, ensuring that everyone would stay calm during difficult times.”
Despite some ups and downs in his game, Mayfield achieved a 64% completion rate, setting career highs with 4,044 yards and 28 touchdowns. He also reduced the number of costly mistakes that plagued him in previous experiences.
The Buccaneers managed to secure the NFC South division title and the fourth seed in the conference by bouncing back from a stretch in which they lost six out of seven games, ultimately winning five out of their last six contests.
Mayfield recognizes the significance of his first playoff start since his time with the Browns in 2020. However, he emphasizes that the team’s ultimate objective is not limited to winning the division or personal achievements. The focus now is solely on the upcoming game against the Eagles, as the Browns are determined to make a deep postseason run.
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